Chapter 3

Chapter 3: Moving Away

The drive to Reese’s house felt endless, as though the road stretched longer with every heavy thought that crossed Chelsea’s mind. She gripped the steering wheel tightly, her knuckles turning pale as the weight of the day's events pressed against her chest. Every moment replayed vividly—the wedding, Adam’s cutting words, and the disdain in his eyes. She blinked hard, trying to keep the tears from spilling again, but the sting of betrayal was too raw.

Reese’s house came into view—a sleek, modern structure nestled in the quiet suburbs. It had always been a haven for Chelsea, a place where life felt less complicated. She parked the car and sat there for a moment, taking in the sight. How would she explain everything to Reese? How could she put into words the humiliation, the heartbreak, and the anger?

After a deep breath, she stepped out and walked to the front door. Before she could knock, the door swung open, and there stood Reese, her face instantly clouding with concern.

“Chelsea?” Reese’s voice wavered. “What happened? You look like you’ve been through hell.”

Unable to hold it together any longer, Chelsea broke down. Reese pulled her into a hug without hesitation, holding her tightly as Chelsea sobbed against her shoulder.

“It’s Adams,” Chelsea choked out, her voice trembling. “He...he got married. To someone else.”

Reese froze for a second before gently guiding Chelsea inside. She shut the door and led her to the couch, never letting go of her.

“What are you talking about?” Reese asked, her voice firm but gentle. “Married? To someone else? That doesn’t make sense—you’ve been with him for years!”

Chelsea wiped her face with shaky hands, the words catching in her throat. “I didn’t know, Reese. I had no idea. I went to work today, and there he was...with her. They were getting married right there, in front of everyone. And the worst part? He said...he said I was never good enough for him.”

Reese’s eyes flared with anger. “He said that to you?”

Chelsea nodded, fresh tears spilling over. “He said I was old, overweight, and just...just something to pass the time. He said all of this in front of everyone.”

Reese stood abruptly, pacing the room as her fury boiled over. “That smug, spineless jerk! I can’t believe this! After everything you’ve done for him? After all those years? Who does he think he is?”

Chelsea let out a small, broken laugh. “Apparently, someone who doesn’t care about me.”

Reese stopped pacing and crouched in front of her, taking her hands in hers. “Listen to me, Chelsea. This isn’t your fault. Adams is a selfish, cruel excuse for a man, and you deserve so much better than him. Do you hear me? So much better.”

Chelsea nodded faintly, though the words barely registered. All she could feel was the hollow ache in her chest, the shame of having wasted so much time on someone who never truly loved her.

Reese stood again, her expression shifting from anger to determination. “That’s it. You need to get out of here, away from all of this. It’s time for a fresh start.”

Chelsea frowned. “What do you mean?”

“I mean,” Reese said, hands on her hips, “that I’m moving to Columbia in a week to open a new branch of the family fabric business. I was going to leave quietly, but now I think you should come with me.”

Chelsea blinked in surprise. “Wait, you’re moving? Since when?”

Reese shrugged. “Since last month. I didn’t want to say anything until it was finalized. Dad wants to expand the business internationally, and I’ve been put in charge of the new branch. It’s a big step, but I’m ready for it. And you—well, you need a change of scenery. Columbia is perfect for that.”

Chelsea shook her head, overwhelmed. “Reese, I don’t even know what I’d do there. My life is here.”

Reese crossed her arms. “Your life here is toxic. Adams is here. His new wife is here. And let’s not forget your aunt constantly tearing you down. Columbia is a chance to escape all of that. You could help me with the business or find something new to do. The point is, you need to get away from this mess.”

Chelsea hesitated, the idea both terrifying and oddly appealing. “I don’t know, Reese. What if I regret it?”

Reese placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. “The only thing you’ll regret is staying here and letting this place crush you. Trust me, Chelsea. This is what you need.”

The room fell silent as Chelsea considered her options. The idea of leaving everything behind felt drastic, but maybe that was exactly what she needed.

Before she could respond, her phone buzzed on the coffee table. The name “Sonia” flashed on the screen, and Chelsea’s stomach churned. Reese snatched the phone before Chelsea could reach for it.

“Nope,” Reese said firmly, declining the call. “We’re not dealing with her right now. You need a break from everyone.”

“But—”

“No buts,” Reese interrupted. “We’re booking flights tonight. End of discussion.”

Chelsea stared at her, still unsure. “Reese, this is crazy.”

“What’s crazy,” Reese shot back, “is staying here and letting Adams ruin you. We’re leaving, Chelsea. You and me. New country, new start.”

Chelsea let out a shaky breath. “Okay. Let’s do it.”

Reese’s face lit up. “That’s my girl!”

Within minutes, Reese had her laptop open, her fingers flying across the keyboard. “Alright, flights are booked. We leave in three days.”

Chelsea blinked in disbelief. “Three days? Isn’t that a bit...fast?”

“Nope,” Reese said confidently. “Fast is good. It doesn’t give you time to overthink.”

Chelsea couldn’t help but smile, despite everything. Reese’s energy was infectious, and for the first time all day, she felt a glimmer of hope.

Over the next few days, Chelsea packed her belongings with Reese’s help. She donated most of her things, keeping only the essentials. Every item she placed in her suitcase felt like a small step toward reclaiming her life.

On the morning of their flight, Chelsea stood in her empty apartment, taking one last look around. The walls, once filled with memories, now felt cold and lifeless.

Reese appeared in the doorway, her suitcase in hand. “You ready?”

Chelsea nodded, a mix of nerves and excitement bubbling inside her. “Yeah. I’m ready.”

As they boarded the plane and settled into their seats, Chelsea gazed out the window. The city she had called home for so long faded into the distance, replaced by endless blue skies.

For the first time in years, she felt free.