Chapter 2 "Matilda, are you ready yet?" Every year on my birthday, Grady was always running late. Yet for Catherine's birthday, he managed to be at the restaurant an hour and a half early. As I read the message he sent, a wave of sadness swept over me. "I'm at the hospital, so I can't make it to her party." But Grady wasn't going to let me off that easily. "An allergy is hardly a reason to be in the hospital. Do you really need to blow this out of proportion?" "Everyone from my company will be there. As the boss's wife, you can't just skip it. I'm coming to get you now." In what felt like no time at all, he drove from the restaurant to the hospital. Within ten minutes, he was standing in the doorway of my room. Seeing me in the hospital bed didn't stir a hint of concern in him-just pure disdain. "You look like a bloated mess, kind of like a pulled pork sandwich," he scoffed, holding up a fancy dress that had a Victorian flair, clearly expecting me to wear it. My mouth, barely able to move because of the swelling, struggled to resist. "Grady, I really don't want to go. Please don't make me." He stood there silently for a moment before finally speaking. "Looking like this, you'd only embarrass me if you showed up. Maybe it's better if you just-" He was about to relent when a ringtone interrupted him. "Grady, have you picked up Matilda yet?" He looked torn but under Catherine's sweet persuasion, he gave in to her request. "Did you hear that? Catherine just wants to celebrate with you. Don't mess it up for me." The mirror in the hospital room was small, but enough to see my swollen face and the red welts covering my body. I slowly walked out of the restroom, where Grady stood waiting impatiently by the door. "Come on, let's go." He didn't even give me a second glance. I followed him, each step sending a dull pain through my abdomen. Inside, I made a silent decision. I'll go with him one last time, as a farewell. After tonight, I'm leaving Grady for good. In "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die" by CrushReel, Zoe Hale takes a daring step by marrying Ashton Cross, a man under suspicion for her sister's mysterious demise. As their relationship evolves, hidden truths unravel, intertwining love and suspense in this captivating romance novel. Exploring the complexities of loyalty and deception, the story delves deep into Zoe's quest for justice while navigating the unexpected twists of her heart. The enigmatic bond between Zoe and Ashton unfolds against a backdrop of secrets and revelations, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with each turn of the page. Set in a blend of romance and drama, "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die" stands out for its intricate character dynamics and the seamless fusion of passion and intrigue. With every chapter, CrushReel skillfully crafts a narrative that immerses readers in a world where love confronts darkness, leaving them yearning for more. Discover the enthralling saga of Zoe and Ashton, available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in this unique tale that defies conventions and promises an unforgettable literary experience.