Rebirth Into My Second Chance

When I swung the door open, there was Claude, holding a couple of bottles of milk, the scent of liquor still lingering on him.

As he walked in, the mix of tobacco and his cool demeanor was oddly comforting. But knowing him better, I instinctively clenched my fist and stepped back.

I had loved him deeply once, but loving him was like playing with fire. Now, even a glance felt like a risk to my heart.

"Why the surprise visit?" I managed, despite the blend of his scent and aura that filled the air.

He glanced around my modest living space, hinting at his disapproval, "Not coming back with me?"

His silence when I didn't respond was broken as he handed me the milk, "My mom mentioned you liked the Hilton family's brand."

I hesitated, the bottle hanging in the air between us. Having been raised by the Hart family, my tastes had indeed become refined, courtesy of Mrs. Hart's insistence on quality to make up for other lacks. "Is your hand still hurting?" He assumed, noticing my hesitation. "Did you apply any ointment?"

reached for the milk, showing him my hand, "Just took

His expression darkened immediately.

towards the door, "I've got my internship at Century Wellness Hospital's emergency department tomorrow. I need my rest,

had forced me into this position,

"Still mad at me?"

I not be? But I merely

wall. "Claire Floyd, you're

dislikes, fought off any competition fiercely

the days when he would comfort me, back when

you're choosing me over Kate now?" I whispered,

away with a sharp, "Don't be