When I stepped out of the studio, I didn't see anyone, but soon I heard the sound of hurried footsteps approaching me.Pete, who had been crouching on the steps outside the studio, rushed toward me when he saw me, pulling me into a big hug. His embrace was warm and trembling, his voice choked with e
"Ariana!" Nicholas' voice was restrained and calm. It sounded like he was calling out to someone insignificant. Yet, there was an underlying despair as if he was trapped in a nightmare.The hand on my shoulder tightened, and Pete's body trembled slightly. He whispered to me, seeking my approval. "Ms
Under Pete's expectant gaze, I nodded and said, "If that day really comes, I'm willing to give it a try with you."As I watched him leave, satisfied and hopeful, I slumped back into the chair, feeling drained. The table full of food didn't appeal to me at all due to my lack of appetite.Pete was ove
In the evening, just before bed, I heard scratching sounds at the door. I thought it was a lost kitten or puppy from somewhere, but when I opened the door, I found Nicholas standing outside with his neck slightly arched.His Adam's apple was bobbing up and down, and his eyes were red and swollen. Th
I kicked Nicholas' arm with my foot. His arm went limp and slid down to the ground as if it had no bones. He was having a fever, and his forehead was burning hot.I slapped his cheek a few times, and he opened his eyes. His dark eyes were sharp, but they softened when he recognized me, looking at me
However, Jasmine's words didn't stir even the slightest ripple in my heart. After a moment's thought, I calmly said to her, "Then you have even less reason to provoke me. After all, without me, you wouldn't have anything you have now.""Ms. Jones, you're so full of yourself!"She refused to admit i
Jasmine crossed her arms and snorted at me. "Nick was drawn to you just because you were different. But you know how men are. Even Nick is no exception. I hope you don't let it bother you too much, Ms. Jones." …Nicholas was quick to act. A few nonchalant words from him were enough to bring my reco
"Enough!" Everything Nicholas said made me sick to my stomach. "Stop trying to make yourself the victim!"His questioning stung even more than when he agreed to let Jasmine replace me. I hung up the phone, my hand shaking uncontrollably. At that moment, all my hopes for the future were shattered. I