Chapter 3

Not two days later, word got around fast in our social circle.

Vivian was pursuing a college sophomore.

Perhaps he hadn't seen much of the world, easily swayed by money and vanity. He was hooked in a couple of days.

At a friends' gathering, Vivian brought him along.

The moment they walked in, everyone went silent.

A few good friends looked at me with concern.

I just smiled. "Why's everyone so quiet? What are you looking at me for?"

Vivian draped an arm around the guy, then sat down, finally looking me dead in the eye: "Alex, tonight's a good opportunity. Let's just lay it all out."

"Okay, go ahead."

"These on-again, off-again years have been pointless. The feelings faded long ago."

I clenched my hand tight, the diamond ring I’d hidden in my palm digging painfully into my skin.

But I barely felt it.

"You're not as young as him, and you don't have his bright, positive vibe. I truly like him."

Vivian held the guy's hand, her eyes full of affection.

I nodded slightly: "Yeah, I get it."

"We can still be friends. If you need anything, you can always come to me."

"Nah, let's not."

I gave a small, sarcastic laugh and stood up: "Since we're breaking up, let's make it a clean break. Avoid any misunderstandings."

Vivian raised an eyebrow, a little surprised. A moment later, she said, "Fair enough."

"Then you guys carry on. I'm heading back."

"Want me to walk you out?"

"No thanks, I'll just grab a ride-share."

As I walked out of the room, casually closing the door behind me, I heard someone ask,

"How long do you think Alex will last this time?"

"Two days?"

"He seems genuinely upset this time. I'll bet five days."

Vivian glanced at the door, which wasn't fully closed, and smirked:

"Give it three days. Alex will come crawling back like a lost puppy. He always does."

"It's been like this for years, hasn't it?"

The people inside all agreed: "True, how could Alex ever leave you? Everyone knows he's crazy in love with you…"

I let out a self-deprecating laugh, picking up my pace towards the elevator.