Requiem of a Broken Heart

Chapter 601:

Debby took a gentle step forward and clasped Tracy’s hand. “Tracy, I’ve always cared for you. I know Brian loves you deeply—he’s carried feelings for you all these years, and I’ve dreamed of you two being together. But…” Debby’s voice wavered and tears sprang to her cheeks. She blinked them away, gathering herself. “Carol is very ill, and right now everyone is focused on granting her final wish. I’m truly sorry, Tracy. I did everything I could, but in this life it seems you and Brian aren’t meant to be.”

Tracy’s jaw clenched, bitterness rising in her chest. Why was fate so cruel? After all she’d done, she was still losing to Rachel. She had fought so hard for Debby’s approval and thought she’d finally secured her place—only to have it swept away by an old woman’s dying wish. She refused to accept it.

Tears streamed down Tracy’s cheeks as she choked out, “I understand, really. I know this isn’t easy for you, and of course Carol’s wish must be honored—she shouldn’t leave this world with regrets. But I have a plan. It will make Carol happy, and I don’t have to lose Brian.”

Debby’s curiosity ignited. “Oh? What’s your plan? Tell me.”

Lowering her voice, Tracy leaned in and whispered her scheme into Debby’s ear. As Debby listened, a slow smile spread across her face. When Tracy finally stepped back, Debby nodded, her expression pleased.

a brilliant

gentle. “Rachel, you and Brian have already gone your separate ways. There’s no need to hold on to something that’s over. Tracy had a good idea. You and Brian can arrange a fake marriage and show Carol a forged certificate. It’ll put her at ease without getting in the way of Brian and

chapters now

was what Tracy had been after all along. Always thinking ahead, always two steps ahead

about the wedding? Carol would

the certificate wouldn’t be real, the wedding would just

expression, as if weighing the idea. Debby stepped

dropped pretenses and got straight

is sick. If you agree to this fake marriage, I’ll cover all his medical

the ocean. Debby clearly believed she was bestowing a great favor, assuming two million would bind Rachel’s