Chapter 2
With everyone’s eyes on him, Roy casually set down his wine glass and smirked. “Feelings? For just a practice toy?”
His indifferent words cut through Emma like a knife. Her heart sank, and she felt a rush of cold dread. The pain was so overwhelming it nearly knocked her off her feet. But there was no time for tears. Laughter erupted from inside, and people were about to come out. She couldn’t bear being seen like this. So, she stumbled, leaning against the wall for support, and made a quick escape.”
Here she was, almost thirty, crying in the pouring rain. How pathetic, she thought. But she couldn’t help it; her mind was a whirlwind of memories and regrets.
Emma first met Roy back in her freshman year at Northtown University. She’d become close friends with Shelly, and through countless hangouts at her place, she got to know Shelly’s younger brother, Roy. Her first thought? Damn, he’s hot. But that was it. He was four years younger and Shelly’s little brother. She always saw him as just that–a younger brother.”
After graduation, Emma decided to stay in Northtown, eager to make it on her own without relying on her family. She landed a job and became a magnet for attention, thanks to her looks. One night, at a business event, someone spiked her drink. Disoriented, she ducked into a hotel, intending to call Shelly, but in her haze, she accidentally dialed Roy.
When Roy showed up, she begged him to get a doctor, but he just looked at her with those captivating eyes and took off his T–shirt. That night, that young boy became her unexpected savior.
The next morning, she was mortified–not out of shyness, but guilt. She tried to sneak away, hoping to pretend it never happened. But Roy wrapped her in a hug and kissed her softly. “Are you running off after sleeping with me, huh?“}
She tried to dodge him, but Roy was relentless. Eventually, she gave in, and they started a secret relationship. For five years, they were inseparable, their love unwavering.
Emma dreamed of the day he’d propose, but Roy never did. Feeling the pressure from her family, she finally asked him about their future, only to discover the harsh truth: he never saw them lasting. He had someone else in mind, and she’d been nothing more than a stepping stone.[
Heartbroken, Emma returned home, curling up in a corner, feeling the chill seep into her bones. She had no idea how long she sat there until her phone rang, breaking the silence.”
Her parents‘ voices came through, full of concern. “Emma, it’s been two weeks. Have you made a decision about the arranged marriage?” Staring at the five–year anniversary photo of her and Roy, Emma took a deep breath. “I’ve thought it over. I’m ready to get married to the guy you said.“2
And with that, she would embark on a new chapter, while Roy could chase his unattainable dream girl. Their lives would never intertwine again.
