Chapter 23
The rain had completely stopped when Keira and Stellan returned from the supermarket. They strolled leisurely down the street with bags of fresh groceries, enjoying the calm atmosphere.
But just as they approached the apartment building, a figure that was all too familiar entered Keira’s sight
The smile on her lips slowly faltered.
She had never expected that the one p
person she thought she’d never face again–the one who had once meant everything to her–would find her here.
Stellan, astute as ever, immediately noticed her change in expression. He glanced in the direction she was looking and saw Vincent standing not far away
from them.
Without saying a single word, he stepped in front of her protectively.
Before seeing her, Vincent had been filled with anticipation. But his expression instantly turned sour when he spotted the man beside her. And when he took in Stellan’s face, his anger surged. He strode forward at once.
Stellan, sensing his intent, immediately stepped in to block him, “Who are you?”
“That’s what I should be asking. Who the hell are you?” Vincent’s voice was laced with hostility.
Having his way blocked only made him angrier. Nevertheless, he tried to keep his composure because he didn’t want to upset Keira, who stood quietly nearby.
Stellan ignored his provocation and tumed to look at Keira. “Do you know this man?”
She nodded calmly in response.
“Do you want me to walk you home now? Stellan asked, his voice low and concerned.
“No, It’s fine. Let’s go. Don’t bother with him. Keira took a step forward, intent on leaving.
“Can we talk, Keira? Vincent spoke up.
Her footsteps faltered, and Stellan seemed to understand immediately. Judging from the tension, he’d more or less guessed the nature of their past.
“If you don’t talk to him now, he probably won’t let it go. I’ll wait for you up ahead,” he said gently.
“Okay,” Keira replied.
Stellan took the groceries from her and walked to a spot nearby to wait for her.
Throughout that entire exchange, neither of them even glanced at Vincent. It was as if he were just some random stranger who had nothing to do with
them
the past
el to face Vincent. “There’s nothing left for us to talk about. You made your choice when you chose Kimberly. Don’t bring up the
Keira finally turned to
Her voice was cold and detached as she said that. It struck Vincent like a punch to the chest.
It had been a long time since he’d spolon to her face–to–face. In his memory, Keira had always been gentle and soft–spoken. He had never seen her Lehave this uncaring and distant toward him.
“Keira, I’m sorry for everything. I should’ve realized that you were Kild sooner. I should’ve listened. Can you forgive me?
“I know you might still resent me for what happened with Kimberly. But she’s already paid for everything she did I found out the truth and returned it to ber tenfold.
“Can we start over, please? I’ve missed you so much.”
Vincent’s voice was full of humility and regret. There was also a slight involuntary tremble as he spoke.
Ever since he discovered that truth, it felt like something in his heart had shattered beyond repair. He had waited desperately for days in hopes of hearing news of her. All he wanted was to get to her and see her as soon as possible.
His eyes shone with yearning and fervor
But Keira didn’t answer right away. She simply stared at him wordlessly.
The piercing look she gave him made him feel diffident. He averted his eyes, unable to meet her gaze any longer
hows one of the
Only after several long minutes did Keira finally speak. “You know, Vincent… I liked you since high school. The time we spent together was inost unforgettable parts of my life. It was almost too beautiful. Tuo surreal.
“I always hoped you’d recognize me just by instinct, or at the very least, give me one minute to hear me out. I
But that never happened. I’ve thought it all through. The past is no mure. We should just let it go.”
Vincent was at a loss. “Keira, L
He opened his mouth to speak but had no idea what to say. In the end, that sentence was left hanging
Keine continued, “Vincent, the moment I decided to let go, I already knew I wouldn’t regret it. I loved you once. but I don’t anymore. It’s over. Please
With that, Keira tumed and walked away without looking back while Vincent stood from as he watched her make her way to Stellani.
I wave of crushing regret washed over him.
Before arriving in Dalia, he had pictured countless possibilities. As long as she was willing to come back to him, he was ready to do whatever it took.
but meny, she had stood before him and told him plakudy that she slidas!! lower him.
His heart sank to his stomach, mid he felt inexplicably culid all over.
