I had started a relationship with Anthony because of a promise. If I could go back and start over, I’d stay as far away from him as possible.
When I first left home, Anthony’s mother was my landlord. She was kind to me, treating me with care and looking out for me in every way. It was through her that I met Anthony. Back then, we barely interacted.
When Anthony’s mother was diagnosed with cancer, she entrusted him to me on her deathbed. She begged me to look after him, and I promised. Over time, that promise pulled me into Anthony’s life.
We had known each other for ten years and been together for seven.
Now, stuck in this quagmire, I realized I had fulfilled that promise and repaid the kindness I owed her.
“Celine, what are you thinking about? You should go out.”
My family hosted a banquet to celebrate my upcoming wedding with the Young family. The lights were dazzling, and countless reporters surrounded me, their cameras flashing.
I wanted to hide, but Hugo stayed close, shielding me from the crowd. His smile was reassuring, his presence stunning.
Looking at him, I couldn’t help but think: if I had met him first, perhaps everything would have been different.
The banquet was in full swing, and everyone raised their glasses for toasts. I disliked drinking, so I feigned intoxication and slipped out to the balcony. The cool night breeze brushed my face, instantly clearing the haze of the party.
I heard footsteps behind me. Before I could turn fully, a hand grabbed my arm.
“Come home with me!” Anthony hissed through clenched teeth, his words sharp and bitter.
It had been a while since I last saw him. He looked worn, almost haggard.
Sonia stood beside him, dressed in a gown, clinging to his arm like an ornament. She stared at me defiantly.
I met his gaze calmly. “Let go, Mr. Leeman. Show some respect–for both of us.”
1/2
Chapter 5
+25 BONUS
Anthony’s grip tightened. “Celine, what will it take for you to come back to me?”
Sonia chimed in with a tone that dripped false sincerity. “Celine, it’s all my fault. I’ve made you misunderstand Tony. He loves you so much. Please forgive him.”
Her words were laced with an aggrieved innocence, but her hand remained firmly locked on Anthony’s arm.
I ignored her entirely and focused on Anthony. “There’s no going back. We can’t return to what we were.”
Anthony’s frustration bubbled over. “Are you serious? Ten years, Celine. You’re willing to throw away ten years of love? Are you out of your mind? Hugo’s rich? So what? I’m rich too! My artistic photos with Sonia will make me even richer soon!”
