Echoes of Unrequited Love

Chapter 68

At the movie theater, Darren scratched his head awkwardly as he gazed at the love seats in front of us, muttering “Sorry. I had no idea.”

Our seats were smack in the middle, surrounded by couples on every side.

Putting on a cool front, I said, “The movie’s about to start, let’s just sit down.”

Darren plopped down on the edge of his seat, careful not to cross any lines, as if he was on thin

ice.

I couldn’t help but notice and felt a pang in my chest, as if it were being filled with seawater. both bitter and salty.

Truth be told, I’ve pulled this kind of “dumb stunt” myself before.

The difference was, Darren did it unknowingly, while I, years ago, did it on purpose.

I had deliberately chosen a horror movie and, at the scariest moment, threw myself into Hogan’s arms.

All I wanted was for that unflappable man to secretly develop a soft spot for me.

But even after the movie ended, Hogan didn’t make a move, remaining as aloof and noble as

ever.

just a case of the

felt a warmth on my fingertips and looked down to realize I had accidentally brushed against Darren’s hand while reaching for my drink.

moment, his

was about to explain when the buzzing of my

I stepped out

the caller ID, I zoned

calling, probably another task

temples, I answered with a polite,

really late; it

cough came through the receiver, followed by a scoff, “Ms. March, aren’t you the model worker

cutting to the chase, “What do

I need you to set up a plugin for me

it was work talk.

Chapter 58

up, asking, “What kind?”

where two can share photos and

tone was calm, as if it

I suddenly

of the hundred coupley things I had once promised him.

I complained about some platform being too rigid and many features being behind a paywall, swearing

wanted to use it for

emotions split

to praise Hogan for being such an attentive boyfriend or