Today is my birthday, and Jason and I had planned to watch the drone light show together.

I dressed up with care, looking forward to this rare moment for just the two of us.

Unfortunately, as the light show was nearing its end, all I received was a video call invitation from Jason.

With a look of regret, he said, "Darling, I need to assist Director Gianna with an urgent project outside. I might be working late."

Since Jason's college friend Gianna had been promoted to his boss, he has either been working late into the night with her or frequently traveling for business.

And now, it seemed like he’d be busy for who knows how long.

Suppressing my disappointment, I was about to leave when the scrolling text on the electronic wish wall caught my eye:

"Thanks to Gianna for guiding me, may we create a bright future together. — Jay"

Looking at the still-open video call on my phone, I gave a wry smile and shook my head.

"Look, isn’t that Amber from the power company? Didn’t expect her to be at our annual meeting!"

Someone pointed out.

"I heard her husband is Mr. Trivett from our company. Wow, he's truly a dedicated workaholic."

It was then that I noticed the award ceremony taking place nearby.

An annual meeting?

I quietly approached and saw Gianna holding a crystal trophy, gracefully walking towards Jason on stage. She was dressed in a sleek gray business suit, exuding both competence and elegance.

"Let’s congratulate Manager Jason for winning the Employee of the Year award!"

Gianna's voice echoed through the garden via the microphone.

"Mr. Trivett not only excels in his work but is also a model husband. Many guests might not know this, but even I envy Mr. Trivett’s wife."

Turning to address everyone, she placed her arm around Jason's waist and shared a knowing smile with him.

Her confidence and poise were reminiscent of a gracious host.

After a lengthy, flattering speech, she handed the trophy to Jason. They gazed at each other with deep affection and, under the gaze of everyone, shared a tender kiss.

The room erupted in enthusiastic applause and cheers.

Many guests even took out their phones to capture the moment.

I could see that many smiles were genuine, with people truly believing they made a perfect pair.

Ironically, at that moment, I also thought they seemed like an ideal match.

But if all of this were real, what did that make me?

Standing in the crowd, I felt as if I were plunging into an ice cave, the world around me falling silent and losing all color.

Wasn't Jason supposed to be working late outside today?

How could he be here, kissing another woman?

Before I could think further, everyone’s gaze turned to me.

Their looks ranged from mockery to sympathy.

Jason noticed me too, his face momentarily showing panic, but he quickly regained his composure as the professional he was.

"It seems our surprise has been discovered by Amber. Mr. Trivett, why don't you invite your partner to the stage to share a few words?"

Gianna elegantly linked her arm with Jason’s, smiling as if she were his wife.

Jason forced a smile, "Ms. Kirk, this might not be appropriate..."

Gianna interrupted, "What’s inappropriate about it? Our company always advocates a balance between work and life."

Turning to me, she said, "Amber, please come up to the stage."

I took a deep breath, forcing myself to stay calm.

Stepping onto the stage, I spoke softly, "To improve our quality of life, my husband has put in not only hard work but also personal effort. I sincerely thank this company and Ms. Kirk for recognizing his contributions."

With that, I turned and walked away, ignoring the commotion behind me.

Gianna dared to publicly kiss my husband, clearly trying to provoke me into a confrontation with Jason right there.

"Amby, please let me explain..."

As I reached the elevator, my phone buzzed with a message from Jason.

Oh, he can't even be bothered to explain in person?

I silenced the phone and stepped into the elevator.

While the couple on stage embraced warmly, all I could see in the mirror’s reflection was my own face, bitter and gray.