Betrayed by Love and Family

Synopsis

The morning light streamed through the windows of the Brooklyn condo as Ryder squeezed my hand, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "So, what do you think, Ev? This could be ours by next month." I ran my fingers along the marble countertop of the kitchen island, imagining our life here. Five years of saving, of working double shifts at the café while Ryder put in overtime at his construction site. All for this moment. "It's perfect," I whispered, taking in the high ceilings, the hardwood floors, the view of the Manhattan skyline in the distance. "I still can't believe we can actually afford it." Ryder wrapped his arms around my waist from behind, pressing a kiss to my neck. "I told you, babe. All those late nights were worth it." The realtor smiled from across the room, giving us space to dream. I'd been careful to keep my family name out of all this. Everly Cunningham didn't exist here—just Everly Jones, ordinary girl who'd worked her way up. "We could put down the deposit tomorrow," I said, turning in his arms. "I've got my part ready." Ryder's phone buzzed. He glanced at it, and something flickered across his face—so quick I almost