False Name , False Bride 19.1 % Chapter 22 Chapter 22 The day passed by quickly , and it was Marys birthday . I better get ready . Hilda said . She prepared to go into the shower when she received a call from Ethan . Hey , good morning . Ethan said from the other end of the call . Good morning , Ethan . I hope you slept well . I did , thank you . The party starts by 10am , so Ill pick you up by 9:30 am . Oh , okay . Its 8am , so theres still time to prepare . So , I guess Ill see you then . Yeah , see you . When Ethan ended the call , Hilda hurriedly went into the shower . When she was out of the shower , she put on a dress and headed downstairs for breakfast . After breakfast , she went upstairs to her room . She picked up her phone and checked the time . It was 9:15 am . Shit ! I better get dressed quickly . Ethan will be here soon . She said to herself . She picked out the dress that Ethan had gifted her , and also put on the heels . Thereafter , she put on some make up , and styled her hair . She said , admiring herself in the mirror . Suddenly her phone beeped . It was a message notification from Ethan , saying that he was around . She hurriedly went downstairs , holding a small purse in her hands , to go with the elegant dress . After you . Ethan said , opening the door of the car for her . Wow , chivalry still exists . 14:25 Talse Name , False Bride 19.3 % Chapter 22 Im just a gentleman . Thank you . Soon , they arrived at Marys birthday party . Hilda couldnt help but feel a flutter of excitement in her stomach . The venue was decorated with vibrant balloons and colourful streamers , and the sound of laughter and joyous chatter filled the air . It was evident that Marys loved ones and friends had put a lot of effort into making her day special . Members of Hildas former organisation were present at the party . Ethan and Hilda walked hand in hand , and Hilda felt a sense of comfort and warmth being with him . They made their way through the crowd and soon spotted Mary , who was surrounded by a group of friends , all beaming with happiness . Happy Birthday , Mary ! Hilda exclaimed as they approached her . Marys face lit up with delight as she hugged Hilda and Ethan warmly . Wow , Hilda ! Youre here . Its been so long ! I know , Im glad youre okay . Thank you so much for coming , Hilda and Ethan . Im so glad youre here , Mary said with a wide smile . The party was in full swing , with music playing in the background and a delicious spread of food and drinks laid out for everyone to enjoy . As the celebration continued , Hilda found herself engrossed in conversations , laughter , and the joyous atmosphere . She was relieved to see Mary having such a wonderful time , surrounded by the people who cared for her . Throughout the party , Ethan made sure Hilda was comfortable and included in all the festivities . He never left her side , and Hilda appreciated his thoughtfulness and care . Thank you Ethan . Ive never felt so free in a long time . She said . Im glad youre happy . Ethan said . They danced together , and Hilda hadnt felt more alive . As the afternoon turned into evening , the guests gathered around to sing and cheer for Mary as she blew out the candles on her birthday cake . The room echoed with applause and well wishes for the birthday girl . 14:26 False Name , False Bride 19.5 % Chapter 22 After the cake cutting , Mary took the opportunity to thank everyone for making her day so special . She expressed her gratitude and appreciation for their love and presence , and Hilda felt her heart swell with happiness . Later in the evening , as the party came to an end , Hilda and Ethan bid their farewells to Mary and her family . They waved goodbye with warm hugs and promises to meet again soon . As they drove back home , Hilda couldnt stop smiling as she reflected on the days events . It had been a memorable and joyful celebration , and she felt grateful to have been a part of it . Thank you for today , Ethan , Hilda said , turning to him with a genuine smile . It was my pleasure , Hilda . Im glad we could share this day together . Ethan replied , his eyes reflecting the happiness . After the party , and on the way home … Thank you Ethan . I really had fun . Youve thanked me more than enough today . Hilda chuckled . I just cant thank you enough . Its no problem . Just then , Ethan arrived at Alexanders penthouse . Were here . Thanks for the ride . Really ? Youre thanking me again ? Im just being polite . I should get going . Hilda was about leaving when Ethan held her hand . Whats it ? She asked , staring at him . Ethan moved closely to her , their faces were barely inches apart . 14:26 False Name . False Bride 19.7 % Chapter 22 Ethan ? What are you doing ? Hilda asked . Her heartbeat began to pace . Ive always wanted to do this . Ethan- what are you doing ? Im married . Ive always been attracted to you , Hilda . I bought you gifts , cared for you . I love you , Hilda . Im sorry Ethan , I dont feel the same way . And , its too late for that now . Im married . Hilda said , showing him the wedding ring that was placed on her finger . Ethan tried to steal a kiss , but Hilda shoved him off . She stepped out of the car angrily , and went inside the penthouse . When she got into her room , she removed her clothes , and stepped into the shower . While she was in the shower , she couldnt help but remember what had transpired between her and Ethan . He tried to kiss me . And , he didnt think of the fact that I was married . But , why did I stop myself from giving in ? Why did I resist ? I cant deny the fact that Ive been attracted to Ethan . So , why did I stop myself ? Is it because of Alexander ? No. It cant be him . Hes been nothing but horrible towards me . I cant be in love with him . I was forced into this arranged marriage . She thought . 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