Nadine had seen the news online, though not in detail. She didn't go through

every article. But the consensus was clear: everyone was blaming her for treating

Brad as a substitute and playing both sides.

Truth be told, she hadn't treated Brad as a replacement. Maybe, in the very

beginning, the thought had crossed her mind. But it didn't take long for her to let

go of that idea because she could clearly distinguish Brad from Jack, despite their

near-identical appearances.

Brad didn't smile often, nor did he talk much. Jack, on the other hand, had a

radiant smile-full of energy and positivity. Sometimes, she didn't even need

words to tell them apart. A single smile was enough to distinguish the two.

As for the whole "substitute" thing, she could only admit that it might have been

true at first. Over time, however, that perception faded.

It was because of that same face that she fell in love with Brad. But in doing so,

she also felt she'd lost the right to love Jack.

Even though Jack had passed and could never smile at her again, she couldn't

forgive herself for falling in love with someone else after he passed. How could

she? After all, they'd promised to only love one another-and she had broken that

promise.

as the faint sound of quiet breathing in the

to Phoenix Villa. It was a place she

than six years. Nadine

her safe haven, her refuge. That was until

seen how lovingly Brad treated Jean, Nadine would believe

kindness toward her was genuine. But

no longer believe he was being sincere, no matter how

was toward her.

could he be so

be an exaggeration to call it

for

in Pittsbrew, he

get anything

other classmates. He'd also

he only got

he liked her. If

a gift, it

special gesture anymore.

how could Brad not? Brad gave all

to Jean because he loved her.

and words he once reserved

to Phoenix

silence. When

broke the silence as

out of the car. "Don't worry

online. I'll handle it.

you

for using

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