Chapter 3

These memories made my soul ache.

I knew it was time to let go. It was time to say goodbye to my pathetic, one-sided love.

But when I tried to fly away, I found out I couldn't leave Clara’s side.

If I drifted too far, my soul would start to rip apart in agonizing pain. I tried with all my might, but eventually, I grew too weak. I was dragged back, floating uselessly right next to her.

Despair washed over me. I was trapped, forced to watch them play house, enjoying the wealth and comfort I had built for them with my own blood and tears.

I had never done anything wrong in my life. I had never hurt anyone. Everything I had was earned through hard work.

Why did I have to suffer this emotional torture?

Clara stood up to adjust her messy clothes. Julian hugged her from behind, asking softly, "Can we ever be together?"

Clara froze, a look of conflict on her face. Then, she let out a heavy sigh. "No."

Julian’s face fell. He let out a self-deprecating laugh. "I know. You hate me because I didn't fight for you back then. But Clare, your family demanded things I could never afford in a lifetime. I was so insecure."

Clara spun around and hugged him tight. "Don't say that. I will make you rich, Julian. But I can't divorce Ethan. Everything I have today is because of him. I don't love him, but I owe him."

Julian kissed her lips, gently stroking her hair. "I understand. I know I'm the one you really love. I can wait. No matter how long it takes, I'll wait for you. Even if I have to watch you from the shadows forever, I'm happy as long as you're safe."

Clara kissed him deeply.

When they finally broke apart, she looked at him guiltily. "I'm sorry. Just give me some time, okay?"

"Of course. Always."

"The company needs me, and Ethan won't be back from his trip for a few days. Next time he’s gone, you can come over. I won't make you wait in vain."

Clara smiled, suddenly looking like a playful, teasing schoolgirl. She began to dress in front of him, throwing him seductive glances.

Watching them laugh, I laughed at myself too.

She was already planning to find a way to divorce me. She couldn't even bear to make him wait. I had been so blind, so incredibly stupid.