Love That Wasn't Meant to Last

Chapter 22

After a full day of flying, all I wanted was a decent night's sleep at the hotel. But after being kept up all night by Selena, I fell asleep instantly once she drifted off, sinking into a deep, dreamless sleep.

The next morning, I woke up as soon as sunlight hit my face-my body never failed me. Selena was still asleep, but beside her sat Zion, gently holding her hand and wiping it, like a caring parent watching over a child.

Noticing I was awake, Zion pointed to a plastic bag on the bedside table, silently signaling that breakfast was there. I didn't decline; after an entire day without eating, my stomach was empty.

Once I finished eating, Zion stood up, looking at me with an expression of calm resolve. "I've already submitted a request for extended leave on your behalf to your company. Your boss approved it.

"Hudson, stay here and help Selena through her treatment."

It was only then that I learned Selena had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, and her suicide attempt had come after nearly two weeks of symptoms. Seeing my skepticism, Zion handed me a thick medical file from the bedside table. It documented every detail of Selena's diagnosis, episodes, and treatments.

me. "This is Selena's card. There are 800,000

worth your while. I didn't change the password; you should know what it is better than

the card. For one, I didn't need the money; and besides, it was Selena's card. The whole thing felt distasteful, and I looked down on Zion's approach, especially knowing he had

you agree to the divorce in the first place? If

too arrogant," he said. "I thought I could help her get better on my own.

condition is partly your fault. You're responsible for her." He was

didn't faze me. After years of dealing with all kinds of people, I wasn't easily intimidated. And honestly, I felt unfairly

once brought it up.

divorce, and we don't have any