No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

The burning sensation in my throat scorched its way straight to my heart as I finally broke the silence between Ernest and me, "I won't disturb your ring shopping spree anymore. Goodbye!" With that, I ended the call with such force it felt like my fingers broke along with the connection.

I just stood there, motionless, until Conrad approached.

Seeing him get closer, I quickly lowered my head and sped toward the elevator entrance, passing by Conrad, I mumbled, "Wait for me, I need to pack my bags."

"I'll come up with you," Conrad offered.

"No need, I can manage on my own," I declined loudly, quickening my pace.

But Conrad followed anyway. "What's wrong?"

He had noticed something was off.

My heart was already in a sour state, and his question nearly made me burst into tears on the spot. But I knew I couldn't cry, I couldn't let Conrad see my weakness.

Back when I had decided to be with Ernest, I had boasted about it in front of Conrad with so much pride and confidence. And now, I felt as though I had been slapped in the face.

Suppressing the overwhelming sadness, I put on a facade of strength, "Conrad, it's not right for you to come up with me."

harm. I just want to make sure nothing untoward happens. I'll stay outside the

and frankly, I needed some space to nurse

from Ernest, but a single sentence over the phone proved me wrong. I

few words had

being a bit too cautious?" In the

embarrassed but didn't say

me, especially in such a confined space as the

numbers

panel felt like

chest until it felt like I was about to explode.

en

out, with Conrad close

need anything,"

a word, I entered and slammed the door shut, leaning against it. I dug my fingers

was still outside, I bit my lip so hard it might as well have been bleeding, but it was no use. It couldn't mask the pain deep within. Tears inevitably escaped. I closed my eyes,

I slid down, ending up crouched beside the door, curling into myself, burying my

proposal and his words to