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

of winter, the island's weather was perfect.

lives. Work awaited them, and Julian soon flew to Europe. Mira had already called him two days earlier, asking him to come, but he had delayed his trip to spend more

last major project he'd take on for the year. Once this deal was settled, he planned to leave the

the importance of this busy period and worked hard to wrap up their commitments.

her resignation, announcing her plan

better knowing Ashy won't be completely

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

your guidance, they've grown so quickly. Are you really leaving without saying

goodbyes. It's better

"Fair enough. Safe travels."

Be happy."

"You too."

Join us for 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

aware of Mona's feelings but couldn't reciprocate. To avoid awkwardness, Aurora had reluctantly dropped the idea.

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

seeing Mona off, Aurora sat down, taking

countless meetings and farewells. While meetings are out of one's control, so too are goodbyes. The only thing people can manage is their own

Mona left, Heather and Ian entered the

how was your New Year's?"

her a sharper and more vibrant

two didn't hold back on food over the holidays,

said I was

seems love agrees with you. Ian went with you,

turned