Where Fractured Roads Meet Hope Builds Bridges Toward Tomorrow 1

Where Fractured Roads Meet Hope Builds Bridges Toward Tomorrow 1 Summary

In the first chapter of “Where Fractured Roads Meet Hope Builds Bridges Toward Tomorrow,” the protagonist, Daniella, reflects on her tumultuous relationship with Zaiden Levett, who has kept her hidden from his powerful family for seven years. The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Daniella sends Zaiden’s parents a pregnancy report, leading to an unwanted wedding orchestrated by his family. Initially, she hopes this marks a new beginning, but the reality is starkly different as Zaiden celebrates their union by partying with other women, leaving Daniella feeling invisible and betrayed.

As Daniella navigates her pregnancy, she discovers Zaiden’s affair with her best friend, Audrey, which shatters her already fragile world. Confronting him, she is met with cold indifference, and in a moment of desperation, she lunges at him, only to be met with violence that results in a tragic loss. This harrowing experience serves as a catalyst for change, as she inexplicably finds herself back on the day of her prenatal checkup, granted a second chance to rewrite her fate.

Determined to reclaim her life, Daniella chooses silence over confrontation upon witnessing Zaiden’s betrayal again. This time, she resolves to leave him, acknowledging the weight of her pregnancy but refusing to be a victim of his infidelity any longer. Despite the emotional turmoil, she finds strength in her decision to walk away from a relationship built on betrayal and manipulation.

As she confronts Zaiden about their marriage, the tension escalates, culminating in her demand for a divorce. He reacts with disdain, attempting to manipulate her feelings, but Daniella stands firm, finally understanding her worth. The chapter concludes with her relief as Zaiden reluctantly signs the divorce papers, symbolizing her liberation from a toxic relationship. Through her journey, Daniella learns that love can often lead to heartbreak, but it also holds the potential for personal growth and empowerment.

Continue Regular Chapter Reading Below

**TITLE: Where Fractured Roads Meet Hope Builds Bridges Toward Tomorrow**

**Chapter 1**

For seven long years, I had been the hidden flame in Zaiden Levett’s life, the secret girlfriend tucked away from the glaring eyes of his prestigious family. That all changed the moment I sent his parents the pregnancy report, a simple act that would ripple through our lives in ways I could never have anticipated.

The very next day, the Levett family—known for their unwavering authority and iron-clad rules—descended upon me with all the fanfare of a royal decree. They were there to orchestrate a wedding, as if my life were a mere transaction to be settled.

Finally, after all those years of yearning, I slipped the ring onto my finger, a symbol of what I thought was a new beginning.

But as the sun dipped below the horizon on our wedding night, I found myself trapped in a nightmare. Zaiden celebrated our union by partying with a throng of other girls, laughing and dancing in front of me, as if I were invisible, until the first light of dawn broke through the darkness.

I could feel the anger simmering inside me, my teeth grinding as I swallowed my hurt.

Six months into my pregnancy, while I was upstairs for a prenatal checkup, Zaiden was downstairs in the car, tangled in a sordid affair with my best friend, Audrey Clarke.

I could feel my world shattering as I confronted him, my heart pounding in my chest. “How could you do this?” I demanded, my voice trembling with disbelief.

He looked at me with a chilling detachment, a sneer creeping across his lips. “Daniella, you begged me to marry you. You knew I’d fool around with whoever I wanted.”

With a casual wave, he added, “Audie got wild and trashed the seat. Go wipe it down.”

In that moment, a red haze descended upon my vision, and I lunged at him, fists flying in a desperate attempt to reclaim my dignity.

But he simply pressed the gas pedal, the car lunging forward, and in a horrific instant, it collided with my belly.

Blood flowed freely, pooling beneath me, and in that agonizing moment, both the baby and I slipped away into darkness.

When I opened my eyes again, it was as if I had been given a second chance. I found myself back on the day of that prenatal checkup, the air thick with the scent of possibility.

This time, I wanted neither the baby nor Zaiden.

***

As the doctor reassured me that the baby was thriving, the screen flickered to life, displaying tiny hands making a heart shape. I couldn’t help but smile, snapping a picture to share with Zaiden, hoping against hope that he would somehow change.

But the moment I stepped into the parking lot, my heart sank. His Porsche was rocking, a blatant indication of the betrayal unfolding within.

I stood frozen for what felt like an eternity, my mind racing with disbelief. Gathering my courage, I moved closer, peering through the tinted glass.

There they were—two bodies entwined, my best friend Audrey on top of Zaiden, her hips moving rhythmically, the earrings I had gifted her for her birthday glinting with every movement.

My phone still glowed in my hand, the 4-D shot of our baby a cruel reminder of what I was losing.

In that moment, clarity washed over me. I had returned from the dead, given another chance to rewrite my fate.

In my previous life, I had stormed the car, fighting for my dignity, only for Zaiden to retaliate by taking my life and that of our child.

0.0 %

00:51

**Chapter**

This time, I chose silence, my hand resting protectively on my belly, waiting for the inevitable.

I lost track of time as the car continued to rock, the weight of betrayal heavy in the air.

Finally, Zaiden rolled down the window to light a cigarette, his expression shifting from surprise to indifference as he caught sight of me. He flicked the lighter open, the flame illuminating his bare chest, decorated with hickeys and scratches—a grotesque badge of his infidelity.

The sight turned my stomach, and I doubled over, the urge to vomit rising.

“You had to do it right here in the lot? You couldn’t even wait until you got home?” My voice was oddly calm, a stark contrast to the storm brewing inside me as I wiped my mouth.

Zaiden shrugged, his nonchalance infuriating. He stepped out of the car, striding toward me with an air of arrogance.

“Not gonna let her leave first?” I challenged, backing away, my hand still cradling my belly.

He hesitated, likely taken aback by my composure, but before he could respond, Audrey emerged, her skirt crumpled, holding my lipstick as she touched up her makeup in the mirror.

Our eyes met, and a silent understanding passed between us.

Audrey bit her lip, feigning innocence as she looped her arm through Zaiden’s. “Nellie, don’t blame me. You’re pregnant and can’t satisfy Mr. Levett. I was just helping out.”

With a toss of her hair, she flaunted the marks on her skin, a testament to their sordid affair.

Zaiden’s arm slid around her waist, and with a flash of defiance, he playfully nipped her lower lip. She gazed back at him with sparkling eyes, lost in their moment.

“Come on, even if she weren’t pregnant, you could still sleep with me,” Audrey teased, her voice dripping with seduction.

Zaiden chuckled, his gaze flicking back to me. “That’s what makes it hotter.”

I lowered my eyes, suppressing the turmoil within me. “Can we go now?”

He gripped my chin, forcing me to meet his gaze. “Who are you trying to show that deadpan face to? You begged me to marry you, remember? You knew I’d fool around with whoever I wanted!”

His eyes bore into mine, a challenge, a taunt, as if he craved my reaction.

But this time, he would get nothing from me.

14.1 %

00:51

**Chapter**

With a dismissive shove, he turned away, lighting another cigarette. “Go wipe the seat down!”

I closed my eyes, inhaling deeply, and nodded slowly. “Okay.”

Climbing into the car, the overpowering scent of sex filled my nostrils, threatening to make me retch.

I bit my lip, forcing myself to focus as I wiped the wet patches from the seat, each movement a reminder of the betrayal that had shattered my world.

Once I finished, I turned to see Audrey clinging to Zaiden’s arm, playing the part of the perfect girlfriend.

“Zay, I’ve got to swing by the office this afternoon. Can you drop me off?”

He frowned, about to respond when I interjected, “I’ll grab a cab.”

With my phone in hand, I walked away slowly, each step a declaration of my newfound independence until I was out of sight.

It felt as though he sensed my departure, an unspoken understanding that I was leaving his life for good.

“Wait!” he called after me, his voice cracking, but I didn’t turn around. I didn’t owe him a goodbye.

In my heart, I whispered, “Zaiden, I’m done waiting.”

I waddled along, the weight of my belly heavy with each step, until a cab finally pulled over.

As I climbed in, I caught a glimpse of Zaiden’s Porsche cruising past, Audrey radiant with laughter in the passenger seat.

Maybe this ending was the best I could hope for.

At least I wouldn’t relive my past mistakes, throwing my life away for a man who never truly loved me.

With nowhere else to go, I headed back to the small apartment I had kept before the wedding.

I tossed the sheets into the washer, cranked the dryer, and scrubbed every surface until my hands ached.

By the time I finished, the night had deepened, and a cramp tightened in my abdomen.

I curled up on the bed, clutching my pillow, exhaustion washing over me like a wave.

My cheeks felt cold and wet as I wiped my face, realizing I had been crying.

Seven years of unrequited love for Zaiden had culminated in this moment of profound sorrow.

I lay awake, torn between the decision to keep the baby or not.

Meanwhile, Zaiden was lost in the sweet embrace of Audrey, completely entwined in her allure.

I watched their love unfold on Instagram—candlelit dinners, sparkling jewelry, designer bags, and matching couple rings.

28.3 %

00:52

**Chapter**

The backdrop of their photos was hauntingly familiar. It was the villa I had once shared with Zaiden after our wedding.

In one snapshot, a tall man was cooking late-night snacks in the kitchen, the glass window reflecting his silhouette.

I stared at the image, lost in thought, remembering how he wouldn’t even pour me a glass of water when I was sick, yet here he was, happily preparing meals for another woman.

A week later, the Levett Group held its board meeting, and I seized the opportunity to return to the villa while Zaiden was away.

I packed my belongings in a frenzy, papers clutched tightly in my hand, and made my way downstairs, only to collide with Zaiden, rushing back in a flurry.

His eyes narrowed at the sight of my suitcase, and with a dismissive snort, he yanked it from my grasp and tossed it aside.

“What are you doing?” I frowned, confusion mingling with anger.

“I should be asking you that! Seriously? Running away from home? How old are you?”

His tone dripped with condescension, and I felt my resolve falter.

“What’s next? Threatening to off yourself again?”

His words stung, a reminder of my past desperation.

“Why would I off myself?” I shot back, gripping the railing for support.

Back then, I had been so lost, using threats to manipulate him into staying.

But after my near-death experience, I realized that living was the only thing that mattered. I wouldn’t allow a heartless man like Zaiden to dictate my worth.

He let out a cruel laugh, his eyes filled with disdain.

“What stunt is this? I’m busy. No time for your drama. Your tricks might work once or twice, but keep pulling them, and nobody will believe you.”

I met his gaze, unwavering. “You’re overthinking it. I’m just here to pack my stuff.

“Zaiden, let’s get a divorce.”

For a moment, he froze, shock crossing his face before his glare intensified.

“Divorce? You’re carrying my heir, and you pick now? What, you think that baby gives you a free pass to do whatever you like?”

43.5 %

00:52

**Chapter**

I remained silent, descending the stairs slowly, pulling the divorce papers from my bag and thrusting them toward him.

“Yeah, I want a divorce.

“I don’t want a single thing from you. All I want is a clean break.”

After six years of marriage, I had never relied on his wealth. I had earned every penny through my part-time painting jobs, refusing to touch his money.

Zaiden flipped through the papers, his expression blank.

A harsh laugh escaped him, sharp enough to pierce my heart. “Walk away with nothing? Daniella, still this naive at thirty?”

He tossed the papers onto the table as if they were worthless, then loomed over me, his shadow engulfing me. “Without my family’s backing, you really think your dad and little brother can make it in the business world?

“Once we’re divorced, how’s your family going to afford the lifestyle they’ve grown accustomed to?”

I leaned back, trying to create distance, my eyes icy. “Even if you use my family as leverage, you can’t hold me back anymore.”

Perhaps the steel in my gaze startled him. He took a step back, his expression hardening further.

“Why?”

He paused, then relented. “I screwed Audrey in the car during your last prenatal checkup, and it pissed you off? Fine. I’m sorry.

“I swear she won’t show up in front of you again.”

My nails dug into my palms, and for the first time in years, I laughed—a genuine, unrestrained sound.

“I’ve had enough of your mind games and abuse, and I’m done holding on to a guy whose heart was never mine.”

With a swift motion, I yanked off my wedding ring and hurled it across the floor. It rolled into the corner, disappearing into the shadows.

“If my whole family ends up waiting tables and sweeping the streets, I’ll never be your puppet again!”

Zaiden lost it, slamming the door behind him as he stormed out.

I figured a man as proud as he would call me in a couple of days, eager to push through the divorce papers and kick me out of his life.

57.5 %

00:52

**Chapter**

But the first call I received was from my mother.

Her voice bubbled with excitement on the other end. “Nellie! Zaiden just dropped off the newest designer dress and bag for me, bought your little brother a supercar, and handed your dad that land in the south to build on!

“Your dad is grinning ear to ear, saying you’re a genius at keeping our cash cow happy.

“Nellie, you’re such a winner. When I hang out with the other rich ladies now, they all suck up, telling me how lucky I am to have a daughter like you who snagged the Levett family.”

A wave of sadness crashed over me, suffocating my spirit.

So, being their good daughter meant marrying rich and squeezing money out of a man who didn’t love me.

I fought back the anger rising within me. “Send back whatever Zaiden gives you next time. We’re getting divorced.”

The hurt spilled over, and I exclaimed, “Zaiden doesn’t love me. He still hates me for making the girl he really wanted leave. All these years, he’s kept other women around to get back at me.”

But my mother brushed off my pain.

“Stop throwing a tantrum. Zay is a big shot. Guys like him always have a few chicks on the side. It’s normal.

“Be more tolerant, okay? The only thing that matters is that you stay his legal wife.

“And hey, you’re already pregnant. If it’s a boy, your spot in the Levett family is locked. If it’s a girl, just try again soon.”

Her words choked me, and through my tears, I yelled, “Mom, you forced me to marry Zaiden just so our family could stay rich. Now you want me to use a baby to fix this broken marriage?!

“I’ve been crazy about him for ten whole years! No way can I handle him always having other women around!”

With that, I hung up and marched straight to Zaiden’s office.

He wasn’t surprised by my arrival. Leaning back in his leather chair, he twirled a pen, his dark tie making him appear even colder and more untouchable.

“Here to say sorry?

“I’ll let it go because you’re pregnant. Don’t bring up divorce again. Go home and play my wife like a good girl.”

He slid a bank card across the desk.

“Here’s 850,000 dollars. Your compensation.”

I left the card untouched, meeting his gaze with calm determination.

“Zaiden, you don’t even love me. You actually despise me. So why won’t you just let me walk away?”

His brows knitted together, his jaw clenched tight as he struggled to contain his anger.

74.0 %

00:52

**Chapter**

“Is this your new little game, playing hard to get?

“There’s no need to be jealous of the women out there. Let me make it crystal clear. After Liv, I’m never falling in love again, and no one is taking your spot.

“You should know being polite roommates is the best we can hope for, so don’t go begging me for love.

“If you want something else, just say it.”

I felt nauseous watching his facade crumble.

He claimed he couldn’t get over his first love, yet he was constantly entangled with other women.

Like a terrible actor, he had been pretending to be deeply in love all these years.

I stared at him, my resolve hardening. “Forget it. I only want a divorce.

“That’s all I’m asking for.”

The air in the office thickened, a palpable tension hanging between us.

His stare bore down on me, a chilling weight that threatened to crush my spirit.

After what felt like an eternity, he snatched the papers and scrawled his name across the line.

“Fine. We’re divorced, as you wish.”

I exhaled, relief flooding through me as I tucked the papers away carefully.

Then I offered him a genuine smile, one that felt like a weight lifted from my shoulders.

“Thanks, Zaiden.”

Thanks for teaching me that love, no matter how passionate, could still end in heartbreak.

Conclusion

In the aftermath of my tumultuous journey, I finally stood at the crossroads of liberation and self-discovery. The weight of Zaiden’s betrayal and the shackles of our broken marriage had threatened to drown me, yet I emerged from the depths with a newfound strength. Each tear shed and every moment of despair had forged a resilience within me that I never knew I possessed. As I walked away from the remnants of my past, I felt a flicker of hope igniting in my heart, illuminating the path ahead. No longer would I be defined by a love that was never truly mine; I was ready to embrace the unknown, to nurture the life growing within me, and to reclaim my identity.

With the divorce finalized, I understood that this was not just an end, but a powerful beginning. The echoes of my past would always linger, but they no longer had the power to dictate my future. I was no longer the hidden flame in Zaiden Levett’s life; I was the architect of my own destiny, ready to build bridges toward a tomorrow filled with promise and possibility. The journey ahead would be fraught with challenges, but I welcomed each one as an opportunity for growth. With every step, I would forge a path not just for myself, but for the child I would soon bring into the world—a child who would know the strength of a mother who chose hope over despair and love over betrayal.

What to Expect in Next Chapter?

**What to Expect in Next Chapter?**

As Daniella steps into her newfound freedom, readers can expect a tumultuous journey of self-discovery and resilience. With the weight of her past finally lifted, she is determined to carve out a life for herself and her unborn child, free from the shadows of Zaiden’s betrayal. But the road ahead will not be smooth; the Levett family is notorious for their ruthless grip on their reputation, and they won’t take kindly to Daniella’s defiance. Anticipate intense confrontations as she faces the wrath of Zaiden’s family, who will stop at nothing to maintain their status and control over her life.

Moreover, the emotional stakes will rise as Daniella navigates the complexities of motherhood while grappling with the remnants of her shattered dreams. The arrival of her baby will bring both joy and challenges, forcing her to confront her past decisions and redefine what love truly means. Expect unexpected alliances and perhaps even new romances that will challenge her understanding of loyalty and trust. As she learns to build bridges toward her future, readers will be left on the edge of their seats, wondering if Daniella can truly find hope amid the fractured roads of her past. Will she emerge stronger, or will the ghosts of her former life threaten to pull her back into despair?