Chapter 28

The rain poured down in relentless sheets as Lily walked through the dimly lit streets, feeling the cool droplets soak through her clothes. Each step felt heavy, weighed down by the emotional turmoil that had erupted between her and Lewis. She had left the warmth of his car and the safety of his presence and now felt exposed to the world, vulnerable and alone.

As she walked, her mind replayed the heated exchange, the hurtful words exchanged with Ethan, and the unexpected confrontation with Lewis. The mix of anger and regret swirled within her, making her heart ache. She had thought she was moving on, but the past seemed to cling to her like the rain clung to her skin.

Lily finally reached her apartment building, the familiar sight bringing a small sense of comfort. She climbed the stairs slowly, each step echoing her internal struggle. As she reached her door, she paused, taking a deep breath to steady herself before entering.

Inside, the warmth of her apartment enveloped her, but it did little to chase away the chill that had settled in her bones. She kicked off her shoes and moved to the kitchen, pouring herself a glass of water. As she leaned against the counter, she felt the weight of the day’s events crash over her like a tidal wave.

Mia walked into the kitchen, humming softly, but her cheerful demeanor quickly faded as she saw Lily sitting at the table, her face buried in her hands. The devastation in her best friend’s expression shocked Mia, and she rushed over, concern flooding her heart.

“What happened to you?” Mia asked, her voice filled with surprise and worry.

Lily remained silent, her eyes closed tightly as if trying to block out the world. The weight of everything felt too heavy to share.

Mia’s brow furrowed, sensing the tension. “Your ex-husband came here and asked about you. That bloody creep! When you were married, he never cared for you—always running after his first love, Sarah. And all of a sudden, he cares?” Mia crossed her arms, anger bubbling beneath the surface.

Lily’s eyes shot open, surprise etched on her face. “So you told him I was in the office?” she asked, her voice tinged with disbelief.

“Yes! That bastard just came in and started shouting your name. What was I supposed to do?” Mia exclaimed, frustration spilling over. “So I told him you were busy working.”

Lily closed her eyes again, frustration washing over her. “You don’t know what you’ve done,” she said quietly, sinking into a nearby chair as the weight of the day pressed down on her.

“What do you mean?” Mia asked, concern deepening.

Lily took a deep breath, her anger simmering just beneath the surface. “Ethan showed up, and I had to face him. He said some really hurtful things. But it’s not just him. It’s Lewis too."

Mia leaned in closer, her curiosity piqued. “What happened with Lewis?"

Lily hesitated for a moment, searching for the right words. “Lewis is... he’s the new CEO. But he’s also someone from my past—someone I didn’t recognize at first. He was there during college, someone who always cared, but I never paid attention to him. Now, he’s my boss."

Mia’s eyes widened. “Wait, the same Lewis who stood up for you back in college? The one who used to have a crush on you?”

Lily nodded, her heart racing at the memories. “Yes, that Lewis. He’s changed so much, and Lewis and Ethan have always hated each other,” Lily explained, her voice rising with emotion. “Ethan got Lewis expelled from college. They were enemies then, and now Lewis is my boss. He’s just waiting for the right moment to mock me, to laugh at my situation.”

Mia shook her head, disbelief etched on her features. “But he stood up for you in college! Why would he want to hurt you now?”

“Because he’s bitter!” Lily snapped, frustration spilling over. “He’s always been jealous of Ethan, and now he thinks he can come back into my life and play the hero. But I see through it. I won’t be another pawn in his game.”

Mia stepped closer, her expression softening. “Lily, I know you’re hurting, but maybe you’re misreading him. What if he’s genuinely trying to help?”

Lily shook her head vehemently. “No, Mia! I know what I saw. He acted like he cared, but it’s all a facade. He’s just waiting to take his shot at me and Ethan. I can’t trust him.”

Mia reached out, placing a comforting hand on Lily’s shoulder. “You don’t have to go through this alone. But you need to be honest with yourself about how you feel. Don’t let your past with Ethan cloud your judgment about Lewis.”

“I just wish things were simpler,” Lily replied, her voice breaking. “I wish I could just figure it all out without this drama.”

Mia squeezed her shoulder gently. “Life isn’t simple, but you’ve got me by your side. We’ll figure it out together, one step at a time. Just remember, you deserve to be happy, no matter what that looks like.”

With a small nod, Lily felt a flicker of hope ignite within her. No matter how complicated her life had become, she knew she had the support of her best friend. Together, they could face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Mia took a deep breath, trying to shift the heavy atmosphere in the kitchen. “Let’s have some drinks and watch a movie or whatever you want,” she suggested, her voice brightening. “And yes, please change your wet clothes first! I can see your melons!”

Lily’s eyes widened in shock, and she playfully swatted Mia’s arm. “Oh my God, Mia! Seriously?”

Both of them burst into laughter, the tension in the room easing just a bit. Mia grinned, pleased to see her best friend crack a smile. “I’m just saying, you might catch a cold if you keep wearing those soaked clothes!”

Lily shook her head, still chuckling. “You’re ridiculous. But I guess you’re right. I’ll be right back.”

As she headed to her bedroom to change, she felt a warmth spread through her chest. Mia always had a way of lifting her spirits, even in the darkest moments.

When Lily returned, wearing comfortable pajamas, she found Mia already setting up the living room for their movie night, a couple of drinks in hand. “See? Much better!” Mia said, handing her a glass. “Now let’s forget about all that drama and dive into some popcorn and a good film.”

Lily smiled, grateful for her friend’s unwavering support. “Thanks, Mia. I really needed this.”

“Anytime!” Mia replied, plopping down on the couch. “Now, what’s it going to be? A rom-com or something with explosions?”

Lily laughed again, feeling lighter. “Let’s go with explosions. I need something to distract me!”

As they settled in for the night, Lily felt a sense of comfort wash over her. No matter how complicated her life became, moments like these reminded her that she wasn’t alone.

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