Chapter 10

Three days later, when I was discharged and returned home, I saw that the exterior of the Thor's house was draped in festive decorations. His house was buzzing with people and laughter—it looked like they were hosting a celebration.

My mother quickly answered my unspoken question.

"Thor got into his dream university. His family's throwing a party for him."

She hesitated, then said uncertainly, "They invited us too… but I wasn't sure if you'd want to go."

I was just about to refuse when Thor's mom, Mrs. Bentley, appeared at the gate. She greeted us warmly, grasped my hand, and pulled me toward the lively house.

"Come on, sweetheart! We're not just celebrating Thor today—you deserve to be celebrated too."

Sensing my reluctance, she gave my hand a reassuring pat.

"Oh, I know Thor's done things that hurt you. Don't take it to heart. He's just stubborn. Once he comes to his senses, he'll apologize."

My lips pressed into a thin line, my expression unreadable.

Apology or not—it didn't matter anymore.

As soon as I stepped inside, the chatter quieted, and every gaze in the room shifted toward me.

Thor looked up. His eyes narrowed, the smile on his face instantly vanishing, replaced by an icy indifference that made the air heavy.

Even when his mother gently pushed me toward him, I stood still. He didn't move either. His mother, realizing we were still at odds, could only sigh and let it be.

I lowered my gaze and stood quietly, like a puppet with its strings cut.

Mrs. Bentley walked over to him and gave his shoulder a firm slap. "Don't be so cold all the time! A man should know how to coax his girl."

He said nothing, just gave a cold glare.

Before she could scold him further, the door opened—and Lina's bright, striking figure walked in, drawing everyone's attention. She wore a radiant smile as she approached Thor's parents.

"Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Bentley. I'm Lina, Thor's friend."

They returned her greeting politely, not suspecting a thing.

But the moment Thor saw her, the frost in his eyes melted away. His entire demeanor softened. He walked straight toward her, took her hand, and led her into the crowd—completely ignoring me and his parents.

His parents exchanged awkward glances, helplessness flickering between them.

It was clear I didn't belong there anymore. I turned to leave, but Mrs. Bentley caught my wrist. "Sweetheart, don't be upset."

"I'm not upset," I said, meeting her eyes. "But I need to be honest with you. Thor and I broke up. Whoever he's with now—that's his choice."

Her face froze in shock. She opened her mouth, perhaps to defend her son—but then she saw him across the room, gently wiping the corner of Lina's lips, his fingers brushing her cheek. She smiled up at him, eyes full of tenderness.

Mrs. Bentley's words died in her throat.

My mother, who had been standing beside me, finally understood everything. Her face darkened.

"I thought they were just having a lovers' quarrel. But now I see there's a third person involved. Thor has really gone too far, breaking Aisha's heart like this."

Mrs. Bentley shook her head, flustered. "No, that's not possible—there must be some misunderstanding—"

"Misunderstanding?" My mother gave a cold laugh. "The truth is right there in front of us. I thought all those breakups and makeups would make him cherish her more, but I was wrong. He's crossed the line. Breaking up was the best thing Aisha ever did."

Her fierce defense of me sent a warmth through my chest—a fragile, grateful ache. At least someone still loved me enough to stand by me.

People nearby were starting to look over, curious. I could see Mrs. Bentley's face flush with embarrassment. This was her family's celebration; I didn't want to make a scene.

So I took a slow breath and said softly, "Mom, that's enough. I'm tired. Let's go home."