Chapter 1
**Title: After the Divorce, My Ex-Husband Stopped by the Crematorium** **Author: Cat Lover** **Synopsis:** Quinn Reynolds spent two years falling in love with his betrothed, only for his dreams of a future together to shatter in a single night. At an event for his partner’s birthday, a stranger arrives, intimately linked to Sebastian Blackwood, leading Quinn to finally understand the hold this man has over Sebastian. The man's enduring affection for his one true love crushes Quinn's hopes. Despite the years they shared, Quinn discovers hard truths when he later faces a tragic accident alone, recovering while Sebastian embraces his past love, sidelining Quinn entirely. When Sebastian stars in a new film, Quinn learns the painful reality that he was merely an afterthought in Sebastian's life. **Chapter One** Outside the grand hall, two figures stood in stark contrast to one another, attracting the curious glances of guests milling about. Within the vast space of the venue, the faintest rustle could be heard; guests gazed, some openly, others discreetly, at the dazzling man positioned at the center. Quinn Reynolds was elegant, with impeccable posture. His tailored trousers and dark shirt clung perfectly to his athletic physique, the cuffs adorned with mother-of-pearl cufflinks encircled by black onyx. Beyond his striking handsomeness, his aura radiated sophistication, reminiscent of a classic masterpiece from centuries past. He gently swirled a glass of champagne in his icy fingers, the golden liquid shimmering and mirroring the rising anticipation in the air. No one dared to break the tense silence. “Lord Quinn…” the man conversing with him murmured, beads of sweat forming on his forehead as he leaned in slightly. “Perhaps we should reconvene another day.” With a nod, Quinn raised his glass to clink against the man’s, the sharp sound breaking the oppressive quiet, easing the tension filling the room. As if a spell had been lifted, the guests exhaled, shifting their attention away from Quinn, and began to chatter amongst themselves. Quinn placed his glass down and strode towards the source of the silence—two individuals standing at the front gate. One was tall, with striking features that spoke of privilege and assertiveness, his eyes—dark and piercing—treasuring unspoken profundities. He stood there, embodying the phrase "unstoppable force." Sebastian Blackwood, Quinn's supposed husband. “Back already?” Quinn expressed flatly, meeting Sebastian's gaze, devoid of warmth. Sebastian stood aloof, his demeanor radiating displeasure. “This is my home," he replied, his voice baritone and dismissive. “It is indeed,” Quinn said, his hand absently tracing the ring on his left hand. The cufflinks caught the light, mirroring the shine of a royal crown. “You coming home is only proper.” Quinn’s tone, cool and matter-of-fact, stung Sebastian like a well-placed jab. He recognized the subtle mockery behind it—as if Quinn were reminding him of the rift between him and his family, highlighting the absurdity of their twisted relationship. Their eyes locked, an electric current fizzing between them; to any onlookers, they looked like sworn enemies. But those familiar with their world knew better—they were legally bound, in every sense of the word. Despite their six-year age difference and separate social circles, weddings like theirs were an inevitability among the elite. Today marked a birthday celebration for Sebastian's father, a gathering where tensions simmered close to the surface. Quinn wished to keep the atmosphere light, unlike Sebastian, who seemed to care little about appearances. Quinn’s gaze slid down to the man nestled against Sebastian’s side—another source of the guests' hushed whispers. "Sebastian, care to introduce me to your guest?" The man, visibly anxious, shrinked beside Sebastian. He looked fresh-faced and vulnerable, like a rabbit caught in headlights. “Uh… hi,” his voice barely above a whisper. Tugging at Sebastian’s sleeve, he introduced himself, “I’m Melody Sutherland.” Quinn observed the interaction, a heavy sensation settling in his chest. The contrast between him and Melody hit hard; where Melody exuded warmth and approachability, Quinn felt like an outsider in his own home.
Chapter 2
Quinn Reynolds adjusted his thin-framed glasses, casting an uninterested glance at the uneasy young man in his twenties. “Melody Sutherland,” he stated casually. Before he could say more, Sebastian Blackwood lowered his voice in warning, “Quinn Reynolds, remember your place.” Your place. Quinn Reynolds couldn't help but chuckle to himself. What place did he even have? Just the “secretive husband” that Sebastian Blackwood preferred not to mention. “What’s your relationship with Lionel Sutherland?” Quinn asked, disregarding Sebastian’s warning and directly addressing Melody. At the mention of Lionel Sutherland, Melody froze. “He’s my… he’s my brother.” The omission of “older brother” made it clear that their relationship was strained. Quinn nodded, recalling correctly that Melody Sutherland was the half-brother of Lionel Sutherland, who had left for the States eight years ago, and it was surprising that he still had ties here with Sebastian Blackwood. “Now it makes sense,” Quinn said, stepping aside to let Melody pass. “No wonder you seemed so familiar when I saw you.” He emphasized “familiar,” casting a glance at Sebastian Blackwood. “The party’s about to start. You should head in,” Quinn advised, giving Melody a light pat on the back and summoning Butler Elroy to escort him inside. Reluctant to leave Sebastian, Melody felt trapped but dared not contradict Quinn, following Butler Elroy with a sense of defeat. Sebastian started to follow but was halted as Quinn grabbed his arm. “Say what you need to say,” Quinn urged. Sebastian shook him off, brushing away where Quinn’s hand had touched him, as if it were contaminated. His disdain for Quinn had always been apparent—two years ago when they wed, and even now when they shared a bed. He loathed Quinn’s hypocrisy, the disguise he wore for the sake of convenience. But Quinn had something to say. No, he was just worried about how his interests might be affected. “Come with me,” Quinn said, turning towards the rooftop, a place unoccupied and suitable for a candid discussion. The night sky was clear, the breeze carrying the fresh scent of earth left over from the day’s rain. Quinn took a deep breath, his metallic eyes cooling to an icy sheen. “I don’t care what you’ve been up to outside,” he stated bluntly, knowing they had only ten minutes before the party began, too little time to address minor annoyances. “I hope you haven't forgotten our original agreement: as long as we’re not divorced, you’re not bringing anyone home.” Sebastian frowned sharply. “He’s my friend.” “You’re the one who’s dirty—don’t presume everyone else is as filthy as you are,” Quinn shot back, his intense gaze locking onto Sebastian’s face, engulfed in fragrances of whiskey mixed with hints of jasmine and rose from Quinn’s cologne. The anger brewing in Sebastian intensified, fueled by Quinn’s nonchalance towards his feelings. Quinn didn’t care for him, so why should Sebastian care about his opinions? “Friend?” Quinn scoffed, pulling a cigarette from his pack. As he flicked the lighter, the flame sparkled like fireworks against the night. With each breath of smoke, a hazy fog blurred their confrontation. No one dared to question Quinn’s striking looks, and even Sebastian found himself momentarily lost in them. “Sebastian Blackwood, don’t treat people as fools,” Quinn spat, though his image remained pristine. “Who carries a friend’s picture around with them?” Those words hit Sebastian like a deluge, utterly breathtaking in their chilling revelation. He fixed his stare on Quinn, seizing his lean wrist, bringing their eyes level. “You went through my things.” “No, not interested,” Quinn replied, lowering his eyelids, concealing his thoughts. His gaze fixated on the flickering spark of the cigarette, but couldn't mask the palpable pain swelling within him. What more was there to understand? Sebastian’s expression spoke volumes. Quinn struggled against Sebastian’s grip, taking a shaky drag from his cigarette. He had indeed rifled through Sebastian’s belongings, momentarily overtaken by impulse, and uncovered a photo of another person. Looking at that face—eerily similar to his own—Quinn understood perfectly why Sebastian agreed to their marriage. If he had any uncertainty before, seeing Melody Sutherland confirmed it undeniably. An ideal substitute, a near replica. Simpler than going through the effort of custom fitting a counterfeit. Quinn fought to suppress the spiraling thoughts cascading in his mind. “Sebastian Blackwood, now that he’s back, what are you going to do?” Quinn asked, glancing at his watch—four minutes remaining. Sebastian stepped back impatiently, wanting to distance himself from Quinn. The relentless nagging of Quinn was irritating; he had already explained everything, what more was left to discuss? As the seconds ticked down to two minutes, Quinn sighed in defeat. He stepped forward to smooth out the wrinkles in Sebastian’s shirt collar. “Whatever you plan to do tonight, you need to restrain yourself,” Quinn said, a note of warning in his tone. “You wouldn’t want your father hospitalized from the stress, would you?” Sebastian’s gaze lowered to Quinn, who casually held the cigarette, moonlight dancing off his sharp nose that seemed like it had been sculpted from the finest marble. His heart flickered in time with the dying ember. “I’ll say it again,” he asserted, gripping Quinn’s wrist gently. “Wendy and I are just friends.” As the words left his lips, Sebastian felt helpless. “I believe you,” Quinn replied with a smile. He thought whimsically, what choice do I have when I can’t very well brawl with Sebastian? Quinn’s icy fingers grazed Sebastian’s lips, gently lifting his chin to make eye contact. He placed the final bit of the cigarette between Sebastian’s lips. The clock struck eight—on the dot. “Quinn Reynolds,” Sebastian said, quickly extinguishing the cigarette with his bare fingers, “why do you care so much about what I do?” Their marriage had never been stable. Sebastian wondered just how far Quinn would go to maintain their shaky bond. “I don’t care about you,” Quinn remarked, his gaze drifting to the horizon while his dark gemstone cufflinks remained hidden beneath his sleeve, dimmed of light. “What I care about is myself.”
Chapter 3
Sebastian Blackwood tilted his head, glancing at Quinn Reynolds. “If anyone finds out I’ve been cheated on, I’d be in a tough spot.” Sebastian clenched his jaw, a silent agreement hanging in the air between them. They were in a delicate dance of mutual avoidance—each firmly keeping to their own boundaries. With a scoff, he replied, “Don’t worry, Lord Quinn. I’m all too aware of that.” In the midst of their silent standoff, the Great Hall erupted with cheers as the event’s star—Sebastian’s father, Maximilian Blackwood—made his grand entrance. Quinn Reynolds chose not to speak further; instead, he bypassed Sebastian and stepped into the bustling hall. A few strides later, he let go of the chill that had enveloped him. In public, he was the polished and charismatic Quinn Reynolds. “Quinn! Come over here!” Maximilian called out, oblivious to the underlying tension from moments ago. He wore a broad smile as he beckoned Quinn closer. His figure had grown portly, though hints of his youthful charm still flickered through. Standing beside him was his second wife, Mildred Fairchild. “Dad, Aunty,” Quinn acknowledged with a nod. Sebastian didn’t recognize Mildred, and calling her “Mom” wasn’t an option for Quinn. “Quinn,” Maximilian clapped his hands together, drawing everyone’s attention. “Let me introduce you to the son of the Song family. You know his brother.” Quinn’s sharp senses caught the sudden hush from the crowd. Calmly, he approached Melody Sutherland, his eyes sweeping over her as he assessed her. With a charming smile, he exuded an air of harmlessness. He was acutely aware that everyone was watching him, including Sebastian, who lingered a few paces behind. “Nice to meet you. I’m Quinn Reynolds,” he said, extending his hand. “Hello, Lord Quinn,” Melody Sutherland smiled back, her gaze shy yet curious. Just as the onlookers appeared disappointed, thinking the moment would dissipate, Quinn didn’t retract his hand. The ring on his left hand brushed softly against Melody’s fingers as he casually remarked, “I’m the legal partner of Sebastian Blackwood.” The words detonated like fireworks in Melody's mind. She gaped at Quinn, her dark eyes narrowing slightly. His smile seemed genuine, like a harmless flower unfurling. “I know,” she responded shyly. “Brother Sebastian has mentioned it.” “He said you’re very kind and a wonderful person.” Quinn withdrew his hand, taken aback. “That really doesn’t sound like him at all.” “Kindness isn’t exactly my forte,” he joked, his playful smile shifting between sincerity and jest. But what he said held a grain of truth. Everyone recognized that Quinn Reynolds, the head of the Reynolds Corporation, was ruthless and unyielding—hardly fitting the description of ‘kind.’ Melody lowered her gaze, her delicate lashes fluttering like butterflies. Her ears turned pink as she murmured, “When I see you, it reminds me of my brother.” “You both are…” Quinn chuckled. “I’m envious of Lionel. He has such a sweet sister, and I have, well, nobody like that.” He spoke with a lightness that drew laughter from those around them. Yet, when the topic of Lionel Sutherland slipped into the conversation, Melody’s smile waned slightly.
Chapter 4
“Micah just got back, so I’m taking him around,” Sebastian Blackwood said as he brushed past Quinn Reynolds, standing beside Melody Sutherland, ready to lead him away. Maximilian Blackwood wasn’t pleased, but he held back his anger for the sake of appearances. Although Melody Sutherland was the son of a close family friend, it wasn’t significant enough to warrant Sebastian Blackwood spending time with him alone. Especially with Quinn Reynolds still around, making matters even more complicated. “Take your time,” Maximilian said, waving his hand. “Let Quinn show Micah around, while you and I go catch up with a few of the elders.” The two men stood silently, locked in a standoff, while their stepmother, Mildred Fairchild, awkwardly stood by, her anxiety causing her to glance at Quinn Reynolds for support. Since the death of Sebastian Blackwood’s mother, the father-son relationship had hit rock bottom. Over the past two years, things had improved slightly, thanks in no small part to Quinn Reynolds’ mediation. Otherwise, Sebastian wouldn’t even have shown up for his own birthday party. “Alright then,” Quinn Reynolds agreed, nodding toward Melody. As Sebastian glanced over, Quinn gave him a subtle nod, a reminder not to forget their earlier conversation on the rooftop. He had to keep his temper in check today, no matter how stubborn he felt. “I’m not going,” Sebastian frowned. “You will.” Maximilian’s voice was tight with suppressed fury, his face reddening. “You ungrateful son.” Mildred held onto him, fearful that Maximilian might lose his composure entirely. Melody, caught in the middle, tugged at Sebastian’s sleeve nervously, just about to speak when Quinn interjected. “Listen, let’s keep the peace,” Quinn Reynolds said, placing a reassuring hand on Sebastian’s shoulder, his tone calm and soothing. “It’s your dad’s birthday. Let’s not ruin it for him.” Sebastian caught a whiff of the familiar cologne wafting from Quinn, turning his head slightly to meet his unreadable metallic gaze. He bit down on his irritation, forcing a strained smile. “Fine,” he replied. If Quinn could put on an act, so could he. They would see who could outplay whom. He leaned close to Melody and whispered a few words before walking off with Maximilian. Mildred exhaled in relief, brushing a few stray hairs away from her face. “Thank goodness you were here today; otherwise, they’d be at each other’s throats again.” Since marrying into this family, Sebastian had become a source of constant ridicule in the community. Without Quinn’s intervention today, another public spectacle would have left her feeling humiliated. Quinn wasn’t interested in cozying up to Mildred. He just couldn’t stand seeing Sebastian flip-flop on issues. He smiled faintly. “Sebastian is young; he just needs a gentler touch. Let’s not push him.” Even so, he tended to provoke Sebastian on purpose. He didn’t have the energy to coddle a stubborn man. No matter how much he might like him, it felt like a waste of time. The lengthy festivities continued, and true to his word, Quinn engaged in conversation with Melody and the guests. He was well-liked, laughter and flattery following him wherever he went. Downing drink after drink, he wore a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes. What was discussed tonight would surely make the rounds tomorrow. Quinn assessed all of it, keenly aware of the dynamics at play. “Hey, Quinn, don’t drink too much,” Melody urged, pulling on his sleeve gently. “You’ll end up with a headache.” “It’s alright,” he said, leaning against a pillar and handing her a drink. “You’re twenty-one now; you can handle a little.” Melody bit her lip before accepting the glass. “You and Sebastian seem to be close,” Quinn probed. Melody nodded. “He protected me when we were bullied back in school.” No wonder there was such a strong bond. Quinn’s mind worked like a machine, replaying her words in his mind. “Then what? Did you all just lose touch?” he asked, feigning interest. Melody’s cheeks flushed as she continued, “After my family moved abroad, we lost contact with him.” Quinn swirled his drink, listening to her half-baked excuse. In this day and age, how could anyone move away and lose all communication? A close bond broken for eight years? “Uh-huh,” he nodded. “Go on.” His cold demeanor caused Melody to shiver, reminding her of the brother she hadn’t seen in so long. “I just got a job back in Capital City a couple of days ago,” she said meekly. How convenient that she would reconnect just in time. Internally, Quinn cursed Sebastian for being a fool, feeling dizzy at his own stubborn thoughts. Why was he even thinking about Sebastian so much? “Quinn,” Melody said earnestly, looking deeply into his eyes. “I…” But just then, a loud ringing filled his ears, drowning out her voice. It felt like a blast of sound, forcing his eyes shut for a moment until he emerged from the darkness. Melody’s worried gaze met his. “Sorry,” he said, maintaining his posture as if nothing were amiss. “I think I’ve had a bit too much.” His gaze wandered, landing on Sebastian, who was standing quietly next to Maximilian. The black suit he wore made him seem composed and reserved, like a sword sheathed—dangerous yet alluring, reflecting a charisma that drew people in. “You like Sebastian Blackwood,” Quinn suddenly blurted out. Melody dropped her glass with a crash, red wine splattering all over Quinn’s polished shoes. “Oops!” she exclaimed, suddenly flustered as she looked from him to the approaching Sebastian, her eyes filling with tears like a child caught misbehaving. Quinn stepped back, feeling the crimson droplets seep into the carpet beneath his feet. He found it harder than he thought to stay steady, his shoulder brushing against the cold pillar. “Are you alright?” Hearing Sebastian’s concerned inquiry sent a chill down his spine, his hazy vision landing back on Sebastian, and his heart sank. Sebastian stood protectively in front of Melody, eyes blazing as he stared at Quinn’s shoes now stained with red. “What do you mean by that?” he demanded through clenched teeth, fists tight at his sides. Quinn maintained his aloof expression, trying to keep his cool but finally opted to remove his glasses, giving up any pretense of clarity.
Chapter 5
“You didn’t see that? The wine glass shattered,” Sebastian Blackwood said, disbelief coloring his tone. “I didn’t mean to, Brother Sebastian,” Melody Sutherland interjected, stepping protectively in front of Quinn Reynolds, her eyes wide with urgency. “Really.” Sebastian regarded her with skepticism, falling silent as Maximilian Blackwood approached, perceptive enough to catch onto the tension. The birthday party had started and ended in a rush, leaving guests with nothing but the lingering taste of delightful cake and a whirlwind of gossip to savor later. It was late, yet Blackwood Manor blazed with light, a stark contrast to the stillness outside. Melody was escorted back to The Golden Inn by one of Maximilian’s underlings while Sebastian and Quinn were left to face the music. They sat on opposite ends of a long couch, the space between them feeling like an insurmountable divide. It was as if they inhabited two worlds, forever separated from life to death. Quinn was indeed drunk, though he maintained a facade of composure, his glasses precariously perched on the collar of his shirt being the only indication of his inebriation. Butler Elroy was attempting to revive him with a concoction meant to sober, while Uncle Henry hovered nearby, anxious. Footsteps approached, and Sebastian glanced up to see Thomas Carrington, Quinn’s assistant, making his way toward them. Thomas leaned in, whispering urgently in Quinn’s ear. With his eyes still closed, Quinn snapped them open, nodding with slight determination. “Tell him I’m interested in this project. I’ll meet with him in Kingston when I have time.” “Understood.” Witnessing Quinn’s ability to handle work matters even while intoxicated stirred a mix of admiration and irritation in Sebastian, who could not resist the urge to mock him. “You’ve gone and lost your mind over money, haven’t you?” “If you’re so keen on cash, maybe next time you should marry a bank manager,” he retorted. “Enough, young man,” Uncle Henry interjected, unable to tolerate Sebastian’s jabs any longer. Having watched Sebastian grow up, he never imagined he would become so emotionally detached. “Mr. Reynolds is already distressed; you shouldn’t keep at it,” Uncle Henry added firmly. Sebastian planted his elbows on his knees, his eyes darkening. “You’re right,” Quinn said, his headache easing slightly. He took pleasure in poking at Sebastian’s sore spots. “I actually do know some bank managers. They’re all young, accomplished, and good-looking. The key factor? They’re not childish.” Uncle Henry frowned disapprovingly. Arguments were part of life, but they needn’t unfold like this. Sebastian shot a furious glance at Quinn, resembling a porcupine whose soft belly had just been prodded. “Quinn Reynolds, can you just behave for one day without being a menace?” The mere thought of Quinn with another man ignited a firestorm of jealousy within him, the word “betrayal” echoing loudly in his mind. Sebastian couldn’t comprehend how someone so cold could provoke such heated feelings in him. “Am I being a menace?” Quinn asked Uncle Henry, astonished. Of course, Uncle Henry wouldn’t answer. Caught between the two, he found it hard to breathe. “Sebastian Blackwood,” Quinn snapped, his own pride burned from losing face in front of others. “No matter how reckless I may get, I don’t carry photos of classmates in my pockets!” A strange silence fell over the living room, broken only by Uncle Henry and Thomas Carrington’s frantic voices. “Sir, Mr. Reynolds is intoxicated; you can't strike him!” Uncle Henry rushed to block Sebastian’s path. Thomas dutifully positioned himself in front of Quinn. “It’s fine,” Quinn said, steadying himself against Thomas. He pulled Uncle Henry closer. “Let him come.” Sebastian’s face clouded with a furious shade of anger as he grabbed Quinn by the collar, dragging him outside. In the process, Quinn’s glasses fell to the ground, shattering beneath Sebastian’s relentless footfalls, followed by a dull thud that went unnoticed amidst the chaos. Uncle Henry felt powerless as he rushed upstairs to get Maximilian. Just as Maximilian started to relax after taking his medication, the news sent his stress levels skyrocketing. “What an idiot.” By the time he rushed downstairs, Sebastian had already driven off in his car with Quinn. Sebastian was strong, having practiced martial arts and kept up a regime of workouts. Quinn’s resistance amounted to nothing as he was tossed into the vehicle, his head colliding with the seat. “Ow! Are you out of your mind?” Quinn groaned, cradling his head. Sebastian’s eyes burned with a mix of fury and something else as he sped away from the manor, headed for their home. He drove recklessly, and by the time they arrived, Quinn was still nursing his sore head. “You think you’re so daring?” Sebastian pulled Quinn into the bathroom, turning on the shower, icy water drenching them both. “Let’s cool you off a bit.” Shivering, Quinn’s complexion turned pale as he wiped water from his face, leveling Sebastian with a frozen glare. The boiling emotions of the previous night finally erupted. Quinn slapped Sebastian hard, sending his head to the side. His hand tingled from the impact. “I knew it! You’re just mad because you’re embarrassed. You’re such an idiot.” Sebastian stared back, forcing Quinn against the freezing wall. There was something striking about Quinn’s beauty, almost metallic in its allure. Water streamed down his face, pooling at his chin before disappearing into the fabric of his shirt. Quinn gasped, his breath quickening, the veins in his pale neck prominent. Sebastian recklessly ripped apart Quinn’s shirt, pulling his trousers down. “Is this how you want to play?” He seized Quinn’s delicate chin, kissing him fiercely, drawing blood from his crimson lip. “What’s the benefit of pretending you love me?” He locked eyes with Quinn’s icy, merciless stare, his own filled with rage and desperation. The kiss was fierce, like that of a wolf. Finding no response, Sebastian let out a bitter laugh filled with anger. “What’s this? You can’t keep up your act now that I’m willing to let you show me you care.” “Quinn Reynolds, let me tell you…” “Enjoy the game? Stay, can’t handle it? Then leave.”
There are limited chapters to put here, click the button below to continue reading "Between Shadows and Secrets"
(It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app).
❤️Click to read more exciting content❤️