I died on my wedding night.

Chapter 1

On the day I was to say, “I do,” my husband left me, turning me into the town's biggest joke. As I was attacked, desperately calling for help, he told me to die, claiming everything would be better without me upsetting my sister. The fireworks meant for our celebration became his way of wooing another woman—my sister. I figured that once I was gone, he could be with her without guilt.

But I didn't know that when my husband learned my bones had been made into a rosary, which he caressed day and night, he would be driven to madness.

As my life ebbed away, I made one last call. Amidst the noise, a cold voice said, "Amanda, haven't you had enough? I gave you a grand wedding. I was just being there for Nicole. What more do you want?"

Blood poured from me as the murderer loomed, like a beast watching its prey. He knew I was done for. I couldn't stir up any more trouble, yet I clung to hope. My wedding dress, soaked and mud-caked, was testament to my struggle. With my last ounce of strength, I pleaded, "Chase, help me!"

Chase cut me off, irritated. "Enough, haven't you tired of these games? I'm over it."

"I'm not lying. Someone really wants to kill me…"

He chuckled coldly. "Amanda, you faked being sick before. What's this drama about now?"

"Do you need love that much? You're already my wife. Do you really have to drive her away to be happy?"

His words cut deeper than the wind. Watching my blood seep into the fabric, I knew my time was up. I swallowed my final words, looked up, and let go, whispering, "But Nicole's alive and well, while I… am dying."

"Then hurry up and just die so you won't bother Nicole anymore."

Before the call ended, I heard a sugary voice. "Chase, the fireworks show is about to start."

Chase's voice faded, leaving only the wind. My blood-soaked phone slipped from my hand, landing heavily by the water's edge. The splash stung my eyes, blurring into hot tears.

In the swirling snow, the dark sky lit up with twinkling lights, drones shimmering like a brilliant galaxy. Explosions thundered as fireworks burst overhead. He had spent months planning this grand display for our wedding, but it was all for someone else. A picture arrived, showing my husband holding another girl against the backdrop of the fireworks; his lips, usually aloof towards me, curved into a smile.

In their happiness, I closed my eyes forever.

They say when you die, you go to the underworld for another chance. If there's a next life, I hope never to meet Chase again. However, fate had other plans. When I awoke, I saw the vibrant night sky and a couple kissing beneath it: Chase and Nicole. "Chase, you can't do this!!!"

I rushed towards them, but my hands passed right through. Staring at my nearly transparent form, I realized no one could see me. I was dead, my soul somehow stuck here.

Watching them kiss, I learned that even in death, the heart can ache. It was meant to be me who grew up with him. Not long ago, Chase had promised me Nicole was like a sister; that I was the only one he loved.

Another firework roared across the sky, snapping Chase out of his embrace. He pushed Nicole away.

"Nicole, we can't."

Nicole's face, still flushed, looked stunning in the firelight. She bit her lip. "Chase, I didn't mean it. I just… couldn't help myself."

Chase gently touched her head. "It's okay. I don't blame you. Let me make a call."

I watched him take out his phone and dial my number.