Karina Wilson thought she had found her forever in Ethan Whitmore—the college sweetheart she gave up her dreams and even defied her family for. For five years, she stood by his side, believing their love was unshakable. But when Ethan’s first love, Katharine, suddenly returns, Karina’s world collapses. The heartbreaking truth is revealed: Ethan never truly loved her. She was only a placeholder, a shadow of the woman he was waiting for.

Shattered and betrayed, Karina returns home and agrees to marry Michael Hudson—the man her family had chosen for her years ago. Unlike Ethan, Michael’s love is steady, selfless, and unwavering. With him, Karina begins to rediscover her strength, her worth, and the kind of love that heals instead of destroys.

But as Ethan’s life unravels without Karina, he realizes too late that she was the reason for his success, his anchor, his everything. When he comes back, desperate for a second chance, Karina is forced to confront the man who broke her heart.

✔ Will she repeat her past mistake and fall for Ethan again, or will she choose the man who cherishes her soul and finally live for herself?

A heart-wrenching tale of betrayal, second chances, and the courage to choose love that lasts. Perfect for fans of contemporary romance, women’s fiction, and emotional love stories with strong heroines and swoon-worthy heroes.