False Perfection

Jason Carter walked up to me with his arm around Vivian Grayson's waist, smirking.

He said with a mocking tone, "Sorry about that, Noah. I just got lucky and won this year. But Viv said you've been getting better and better lately. She even said you could take first place next year. Even though she's said that at least three times already, I believe it'll actually happen in a few years."

I nodded. "Congratulations."

The amusement in Jason's eyes deepened. He raised his glass. "So, for the time being, Viv's mine. Don't worry, though. I'll put in a good word for you at the family dinner."

He pulled Vivian closer, his left hand drifting lazily along her waist.

I let out a self-deprecating laugh. There was a time when I actually believed in that so-called score.

I raised my glass toward Jason's. Just as they were about to meet, Jason suddenly shoved hard, and both glasses shattered instantly. Deep red wine and shards splashed across my forearm.

Jason immediately looked horrified. "Noah, I didn't mean it! Please don't be mad! There's still wine here. You can throw it back at me as many times as you want. I'm begging you—just let me go."

I couldn't help but be amazed at how easily Jason switched between emotions. When I saw Vivian quietly shield him behind her, my heart, which had long since gone numb, ached slightly.

I said nothing. I simply pulled out a handkerchief and wiped my arm. "It's nothing serious. You don't need to worry."

Then, I gestured for the waiter to come over and clean up.

At the sight of it, a hint of satisfaction flashed in Vivian's eyes. She took out a watch and fastened it on Jason's wrist. It was a limited-edition piece I had wanted for years.

Vivian looked it over with satisfaction. "Since you're coming back to the Grayson residence for dinner with me, you should have something to dress it up."

Even though I had already decided to let go, I still instinctively glanced down at my wrist. On it was a worn, cheap watch that Vivian had given me.

The first time I met Vivian was on a stormy night. She lay by the roadside, too weak to move, her eyes filled with hatred for the whole world.

I took her to the hospital and cared for her carefully, but she kept refusing to let anyone get close to her. Over the next six months, I stayed by her side, helping her slowly get back on her feet and move forward.

When she learned that I liked watches, she spent every last dollar she had to buy one from a street vendor and gave it to me. "From now on, I'll take care of all your watches."