I just wanted to make a good impression on my brother’s fiancée, but the second she saw my boyfriend, Rachel went pale. My nerves surged as the rain tapped against the window. Luke, my boyfriend, didn’t notice, lounging casually on the bed. “It’s just supper,” he said, flashing that easy grin, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong.

The cab ride to Caleb’s house was quiet. His yellow porch light glowed in the drizzle, calming me slightly. Caleb greeted us warmly, introducing Luke, and assured us Rachel would be out soon. The living room smelled of garlic and cream as Luke launched into a camping story, trying to lighten the mood. But when Rachel appeared, the plate she carried slipped, crashing to the floor. Her hands shook as she gathered the pieces, and Luke froze, staring at her like she was a ghost.

Later, in the bathroom, Rachel whispered, “Run from him. Please.” My heart pounded as I realized she knew Luke, and not in a casual way. Her eyes were filled with fear. Luke entered moments later, acting smooth and calm, but the tension between us had shifted irreversibly.

Back at the table, Rachel revealed the truth: she had been Luke’s ex-fiancée. He had lied, manipulated, and hidden parts of his past from me. My world tilted sideways as I realized the depth of his deception.

I stood, my voice firm. “Get out.” Luke froze, searching my face for any sign I’d change my mind. I didn’t. He left into the storm, leaving only silence behind.

Rachel and I sat together on the porch later, sharing leftover pasta in quiet understanding. The rain fell softly, and in the dark, we began to laugh, relieved that the truth had finally surfaced.