Chapter 4 Leaving Without Looking Back

At my words, the mockery on her face deepened.

"Elliot, do you really have the heart to move out? You've given up so much just to build this home with me. Now, enough with this. Don't make a big deal out of it. I'll handle the situation with Mason. Your suit has already been arranged. Go try it on yourself after you're discharged."

With that, she walked out of the hospital room.

I watched her retreating figure. All I felt was a deep, bone-weary exhaustion.

…

When I got home, I continued packing, sorting out everything that belonged to me.

At 4 p.m., the doorbell rang.

A same-day delivery had arrived. It was a gift box bearing the logo of a high-end menswear and watch brand. Inside was a pair of diamond rings and a set of cufflinks.

Just then, my phone chimed. It was a text from Lydia.

'You'll hold on to our rings this time. Don't sulk anymore.'

I pulled out the card tucked beneath the rings. It read, 'I picked out the rings myself. I hope you like them.'

The handwriting was bold and unrestrained—Mason's.

I closed the box and tossed it into the trash, rings and all.

…

At eight that evening, I finished cooking, preparing to say a proper goodbye to Lydia.

I called her.

The first call went unanswered. The second call went unanswered too. On the third attempt, she finally picked up.

It was a video call. In the background was a fireworks display lighting up the sky.

"Do you like it?" she asked, smiling, her tone gentle.

"An eight-million-dollar fireworks show? It's impressive."

"Glad you like it." She raised her pitch slightly. "Mason's been in a bad mood because of our wedding, so I brought him on a trip. I figured I'd fulfill your wish while I'm at it."

Watching fireworks in Praire had been my birthday wish last year. Did this count as fulfilling it? I supposed it did.

After the call ended, I dumped the food I had made straight into the trash.

…

At 3 a.m., my phone lit up with a text from Mason.

'Elliot, take a guess. Do you think Lydia will marry you today? You've already lost.'

I didn't reply.

There was one day left before my parents arrived to take me home. During that time, Lydia did not contact me again.

…

In the morning, I stuffed the last few pieces of clothing into my suitcase and zipped it up.

My parents had already arrived and were waiting for me at the airport.

Just as I was about to enter the airport, Lydia's video call came through.

"Babe, I'm back. I'll come pick you up now for the wedding."

She was back. Standing beside her was Mason, still clinging stubbornly to her sleeve.

"There's half an hour left before the wedding. Can you make it in time?" I asked plainly.

She smiled and brushed Mason's hand away, about to answer. Then, I saw Mason lean in and kiss her cheek.

"Something's come up, babe. Let's postpone the wedding for three days."

I forced a faint smile and hung up decisively.

Putting on my sunglasses, I walked into the airport under the escort of bodyguards, passing right by Lydia without stopping.

Lydia suddenly turned, staring at my back.

"Elliot?" Then, she laughed it off. "No, it can't be him. He's not someone who could command that kind of attention. Come on, Mason. Let's get you something to eat."

The plane's final announcement echoed through the cabin. "G1682, this is the control tower. The aircraft has taken off. We wish you a pleasant journey."