chapter 2
After that day, I vaguely felt that something had changed between Rod and me. But neither of us actively mentioned Afra. He showed no intention of explaining anything to me.
He became increasingly generous with me. He took me to various auctions, and anything I glanced at twice would quickly be delivered to me.
I forget who told me this. They said Rod treated every girlfriend well, and was never stingy when breaking up. Whatever the other person wanted, he would give it, whether it was money or resources. It had the air of a business transaction.
The night before his birthday, he had someone deliver two transfer contracts to me. One for a villa and another for a car. When I received them, my fingertips went cold. With trembling hands, I called him.
He answered quickly. Pretending to be casual, I asked, birthday, but you’re giving me such expensive gifts. Don’t you
“It’s
s your think you’re losing out?”
“Losing what? I like you and want to be good to you,” he replied, his tone lifting slightly with a hint of amusement. Like a playful tease during intimate moments.
I dug my nails into my palm, forcing myself to stay calm. “These things are too valuable, they’re almost like betrothal gifts-
chapter 2
formal engagement presents.”
2/3
He was silent for a long time. I pressed my lips together as tears silently rolled down my cheeks.
Finally, his voice paused slightly, and he said carelessly, “Hulda. Don’t overthink it. Go to sleep early, I’ll pick you up tomorrow night.”
Should I believe that he did all this because he liked me, not as a prelude to breaking up?
5
The next day, Rod came to pick me up as promised. As soon as we arrived, his phone rang. He stared at the number on the screen for a long time before letting go of my hand: “Go in first, I need to take this call.”
Even someone like him could have such hesitant moments.
I said okay. After going inside, I found a random place to sit. Shortly after, someone came in from outside.
“It’s so cold out there. Who is Rod talking to on the phone?”
“Who else could it be but Afra? I just overheard a bit- apparently she’s coming back in a few days.”
“Really? Rod must be thrilled!”
When someone or something you’ve waited years for finally
chapter 2
3/3
works out, anyone would be happy. In the end, someone sighed: “After all this time, the person by Rod’s side is still Afra.”
But at a moment like this, when everyone was reminiscing about the past and marveling at their deep connection, I–the official girlfriend—felt somewhat superfluous, like an outsider.
When Rod returned, they had already changed the subject. His expression was grim, with visible irritation. But when he saw me, he concealed these emotions. He came closer, squeezed my palm, and smiled: “Are you having fun? You’ll cut the cake with me later.”
I said okay. After cutting it—after cutting it, I would bring up breaking up. Dignified and thorough, and then we’d never see each other again.
Write your comment
Gifts
1/7
Leave at any time
