Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

The airport.

Aurora and Julian came to see Asher off.

"Ashy, call me when you arrive," Aurora said softly.

"Don't worry, I'll contact you as soon as I land," Asher assured her.

"You'll be alone in New York, so take care of yourself. Make sure to eat on time and don't overwork. The company is already on track; there's no need for you to push yourself like before." Aurora hugged him gently.

She knew the company's rapid growth over the years was inseparable from Asher's hard work. When they had fought side by side, it hadn't seemed so exhausting. But now, with him working alone, loneliness was inevitable.

"I'm a grown man, Aurora. Don't worry about me. I'm heading to my gate now." Asher parted from her with a smile, walking away with a carefree demeanor.

Every time they met, it was hard to say goodbye. Parting was always bittersweet. But since leaving was inevitable, it was better to do so decisively-lingering only made it harder.

Watching Asher's solitary figure disappear, Aurora felt a pang of sorrow.

Julian wrapped his arms around her. "You feel reluctant to let him go, don't you?"

"Mm. Over the years, I've always been by Ashy's side. Now that he's alone, I can't help but worry. I don't know when he'll find someone to share his life with. It's his departing silhouette that I hate seeing the most."

"Don't worry. Everyone will find their partner eventually. It's not something to rush. Besides, Asher's still young, isn't he? Wait until he's thirty-five and still single-then you can start worrying."

"You're right." Aurora smiled faintly. "We still have two days of vacation left before work starts again. Let's make the most of it."

"How about we head back to our island?" Julian suggested. They had spent the past few days with family and friends, but a little time alone was overdue.

I

the island's weather was perfect. They spent two carefree days there, enjoying each other's

Mira had already called him two days earlier, asking him

plane, he promised himself that this would be the last major project he'd take on for the year. Once this deal was settled, he planned to leave the rest to Phil and Rock.

this busy period and worked hard to wrap up their commitments. Once these months of effort were behind them, life

company was also settling into a steady rhythm. Mona officially submitted her resignation, announcing her plan to return to New

I feel better knowing Ashy won't be completely alone

both promising talents. With their help, your workload will lighten in no time," Mona reassured her. Mona

grown so quickly. Are you really leaving without

for goodbyes. It's better to leave quietly than

"Fair enough. Safe travels."

Be happy."

"You too."

the complete experience-all for free. The next chapter is eagerly waiting for you! Aurora understood Mona's unspoken feelings for Asher. Unrequited and one-sided, she had once tried to set them up, but Asher had shown no interest whatsoever. He had even

Mona to this year's New Year's party, but Asher flatly refused. He was aware of Mona's feelings but couldn't reciprocate. To avoid awkwardness, Aurora had reluctantly dropped the idea. Perhaps Asher had returned to the States partly

accidental-it was deliberate. From the beginning, he hadn't wanted to lead her on. Mona understood, too,

sat

are countless meetings and farewells. While meetings are out of one's control, so too are goodbyes.

long after Mona left, Heather and Ian

how was your New Year's?" Heather

hair short, giving her a sharper and more vibrant appearance.

was great. You two didn't hold back on food over the holidays, did you? You

family said I was

Ian went with you, didn't

two turned