Chapter 134
What others thought of their relationship didn't matter. As long as they understood each other, that was enough.
Chloe felt they had this unspoken bond. Connor's kisses were deeply passionate, filled with a possessiveness and wildness that was rare for him. Bright red fireworks erupted around them, wrapping them in a sea of flames. It was as beautiful as a stunning painting.
Lucas saw it all. He had been mingling in the crowd, ready to leave. But then, the fireworks began. He saw Connor take Chloe's hand and lead her out of the banquet hall. Driven by an inexplicable urge, he followed them and ended up not far from them.
With fireworks lighting up the sky, he couldn't hear what they were saying, but he knew it must've been words of deep affection. The scene of them kissing was like a knife stabbing into his heart. From a young age, he had always believed Chloe would be his wife. They had been inseparable since they could walk, sharing countless firsts together their first handhold, the first time they skipped class, their first waltz, the first time they secretly drank beer. Looking back, those memories seemed like the best parts of his life.
When did his feelings start to change? It was probably after he got those burns on his waist and thighs. With the ugly scars on his body, he began to feel insecure. He feared Chloe would despise or reject him if she saw them. So, he did his best to hide them. In the summer, he would even wear two T-shirts around her just to avoid accidentally revealing his scars. The more he did this, the more insecure and worried he became.
When Linda brought him that diary, he lost it. He exploded in rage, completely losing his cool, without even verifying if it was true. He felt Chloe would surely despise and hate him. When what he feared "actually" happened, he believed it was true. It was as if his deepest fears had been confirmed. The beast born from his own insecurities and fears broke free, crazily devouring his rationality and calm. He didn't even confront Chloe.
Now, Lucas realized that he had projected his own demons onto Chloe. The first person to despise, abandon and give up on him was himself. He was the one who pushed Chloe away and cruelly
elife
betrayed her in the fully
his relationship with Linda was largely about getting back at Chloe.
At this moment, Lucas came to a complete realization. But then, it was all too late. Lucas turned around and finally left the rooftop.
The next day, Chloe arrived at the TV station early in the morning. As soon as she walked in, almost all of her colleagues swarmed around her.
"Chloe, you're actually Mr. Connor's girlfriend? Why didn't you tell us sooner?"
"Last night's 'Heart of the Rose' was absolutely breathtaking. The media are all
ait. It's going to b
a
legend in Riverbrook." CondiAll text © NôvelD(r)a'ma.Org.
"Chloe, we're colleagues, after all. Why didn't you invite us to your birthday? You should have at least let us witness the 'Heart of the Rose'
spectacle at the Cloud Top Banquet Hall."