Chapter 2

After a beat, he said flatly, "You're always such a picky eater, I can't remember what you like. Just go buy it yourself."

Actually, I just wanted a sugar-free soda. I didn't even like sweets.

Alessio remembered every single food Maya loved but couldn't be bothered with my one simple request.

When I came back with my water, Maya and Alessio were already sitting together.

Maya was laughing about something, and Alessio was just watching her with a fond smile.

I sat down slowly. My lips were a bit pale from waiting outside in the cold for so long.

Alessio glanced at me and frowned. "Why are you wearing so little?"

He handed me a hot drink. "Got this for you."

The warmth spread from my fingertips through my body, and my aching heart miraculously eased a little.

I just wanted to let out a bitter laugh.

Was I really so easily satisfied by such a casual, passing gesture?

I was about to say something, but Maya called out "Alessio," and he immediately turned his head.

The "thank you" died on my lips.

My phone lit up. It was my boss.

"Stella, we leave in three days. Any issues?"

I looked up.

Alessio was handing the popcorn to Maya.

I looked down and typed my reply.

"No issues."

The horror movie hit its climax. A terrifying jump scare flashed across the screen. I covered my face, tears falling uncontrollably.

Next to me, Alessio sighed. "Such a coward."

I bit my lip in humiliation.

But a second later, a tissue was tossed into my lap.

"Dry your eyes."

I turned to look at Alessio.

Maybe I was hallucinating, but I thought I saw a hint of gentleness in his gaze.

I was stunned and about to speak when Maya suddenly screamed and threw herself into Alessio's arms.

Alessio smoothly caught her and held her close to comfort her.

He even used his thumb to gently wipe away Maya's tears.

"Don't be scared, it's all fake. Nothing can hurt you."

I watched it all happen.

But Maya didn't say anything; she probably didn't think anything was wrong.

She was used to Alessio taking care of her, catering to her.

Even right in front of me, his current girlfriend, she felt entitled to be the one he babied.

And Alessio was the same. Caring for Maya was a habit; even I had to wait in line behind her.

The person who could communicate with Alessio with just a look was Maya, not me.

He could toss me a tissue, but he would pull Maya into his arms to comfort her.

With Maya, he was devoted; with me, I was just an afterthought.

Suddenly, I couldn't stomach this movie I hated anymore.

I stood up and left.

I thought I heard someone call my name, but even after I walked out of the theater, no one chased after me.

I stood outside and waited until the credits rolled.

Maya was excitedly grabbing Alessio's hand, discussing the plot.

Alessio listened quietly, smiling and agreeing, "If you liked it, I'll bring you again next time."

Maya looked over at me, confused. "Stella, why did you leave early? Did you hate it?"

Alessio looked over too.

I was asking myself the same question.

I had dressed up perfectly, waited for three hours.

I sacrificed so much just to see this movie, so why was it so sickening that I couldn't wait to escape?

My gaze moved from Maya to Alessio.

The sacrifices I made to be with Alessio were countless times greater than sitting through this movie.

The disappointment of all those crushed hopes was countless times greater, too.

I swallowed the bitterness in my throat and forced a smile. "I guess it just wasn't for me."