Chapter 4

The winter roads made traveling slow, and it was late by the time I reached our house.

A faint light glowed through the window. Someone was already inside.

Since losing the pup, I hadn't stepped foot back into our home.

Opening the door, the warm yellow light revealed two tangled figures.

Seeing me, Ethan didn't look panicked at all. He lit a cigarette and slowly blew out a cloud of smoke. "Why are you back so late?"

Maya spoke in a sweet, mocking voice. "Lily, you just lost your pup, so I came to keep Ethan company. You don't mind, right?"

I didn't answer. I just looked around the room.

I hadn't been back for only a few days, yet the house had completely changed.

Everywhere I looked was Maya's favorite pink. Her clothes hung all over the coat rack by the door.

The painting in the living room, which Ethan had painted of us in cartoon style, had been replaced by a portrait of Maya.

The rocking chair on the balcony that Ethan assembled by hand so I could sunbathe was gone, replaced by Maya's easel.

There was no longer any trace of my life left in this house.

I felt incredibly disgusted, but I had to get my things.

I clenched my fists, my nails digging deep into my palms to hold back my tears and the rising nausea.

"I'm here for my things," I said coldly.

Maya let out a soft laugh and walked over. "Lily, why are you even bothering? There’s no room for you here anymore."

Ignoring her, I walked straight into the bedroom to pack my suitcase.

Maya followed me, gloating. "Ethan already agreed to let me move in. Your old trash should have been thrown out long ago."

I didn't look back. I quickly packed my clothes into my bag.

Just then, Ethan walked over, leaning against the doorframe to watch me pack. He didn't say a word.

I zipped up my bag and walked out without a backward glance.

As I passed him, he didn't stop me.

I stepped outside into the biting winter wind.

This time, I didn't look back. I headed straight for the train station.