There's no going back

Chapter 9

"What do you mean this marriage is off?" I asked, confused by what he said, still trying to process his words.

"I mean, I'm not getting married to you anymore. And I want nothing to do with you or that friend of yours," Roderick said, full of anger. His voice was cold and distant—just like it was the day I met him.

"Well, I don't know what happened between you two, but we had a deal. Besides, I just told your mom that you’re the one I want to marry," I said, a little terrified but still brave enough to meet his eyes like I was ready to fight.

"You’re joking, Camila. Are you that stupid? I thought I said we would discuss this later. Why would you tell my mom?" he snapped, storming toward me and grabbing my shoulders tightly. His cologne was something I couldn’t ignore. For a moment, I was shocked at how close he was, and I kept staring into his eyes like I was searching for something. His hands were strong—I felt like he might actually break me.

"Rod… Roderick, too tight. Please," I whispered, barely able to breathe.

He let out a deep breath and finally released me. He looked at me strangely, though the anger still lingered in his eyes.

"You know," I began softly, trying to make him understand that there was no going back, "I only ever truly loved my grandpa. Everyone else that’s been close to me… they’ve always left, somehow. All I ever wanted was to make him happy. I just want to fulfill his last wish, so please, Roderick, don’t quit now. And besides, you have your own selfish reasons for marrying me too."

The tension in the room was hot. Suddenly, I felt butterflies in my stomach. I didn’t understand it, but it felt like I was proposing all over again.

"After your grandpa kicks the bucket, this marriage is over. Until then, I’ll be your husband. Now get out," he said, his voice calmer now, and he even looked a little shy avoiding my eyes.

I wanted to ask about Sisi, but even my mouth knew this wasn’t the time. I nodded, like a respectful wife, and walked toward the door—feeling strange—until I heard him mutter:

"Damn that girl. What is it about her that makes me feel strange… and why is she so beautiful?"

His voice was faint but soft, with a mix of regret—like he wasn’t satisfied with his own actions.

"What’s he talking about? Does he mean Sisi?" I wondered. I didn’t think Roderick could ever mean me. The way he acted toward me never gave me that idea. I walked downstairs, still thinking about our conversation… and about how Sisi looked.

"What could make a girl like Sisi look that way? Even if they had a past, Sisi isn’t the type to cry over a man like that," I whispered to myself.

"Oh, my dear Camila," Grandpa said. His voice sounded emotional—like he was crying. And he was.

Suddenly, all my thoughts shifted to him and the joy on his face. I ran down the stairs and hugged him tightly like I hadn’t seen him in days.

"Surprise, Grandpa! I knew you'd always pick the right person for me," I said happily, making him hug me tighter before letting go.

"I’m so proud of you, Camila. I’m so happy—thanks to you," he said, his eyes filled with tears of joy.

I gently wiped his tears away and saw just how truly happy he was. I’d never seen Grandpa so happy before, and I knew—deep down—it was all worth it.

My eyes shifted to Sisi, who still looked like she did when she stepped out of Roderick’s room. I felt a wave of sadness from her, like she had lost someone precious.

"Where’s Roderick?" Grandpa asked, looking up the stairs.

"Well, he’s in his room. We went to dinner this morning, so I think he’s having another date—with the toilet," I joked, making everyone laugh.

"Could you come tomorrow? I'd love to get to know you better and introduce you to some people," Mr. Clastu said.

I nodded, and we took our leave. Throughout the ride, Sisi didn’t say a word. I didn’t want to pressure her, seeing how down she looked.

When we got home, I helped Grandpa to bed and then went to check on Sisi.

"Would you like to stay the night?" I asked, still curious about her sudden change in mood. I didn’t want to bring up Roderick just yet—especially knowing he was the cause.

"No, I’ll be on my way. Thank you for today, Camila," she said. Her voice was low, but she managed to force out a smile.

I couldn’t help but feel guilty. Maybe she really had strong feelings for Roderick. What else could make a tough girl like her so modest and quiet?

"It’s a contract, Sisi," I said, stopping her just as she reached the door.

"What?" she asked, turning to face me.

"I mean… you love him, right? That’s why you’re acting like this. I didn’t know you two had a past, but I promise not to stand in your way. I’ll even help you get back together if that’s what you want," I said sincerely.

"Camila…" Sisi muttered.

"No. I get it. He’s your type. He’s rude, thinks he owns the world, rich… but if anyone can tame a girl like you and still make her feel like this, then I know it’s him," I added, trying to lighten the mood.

"Oh, Camila, I can’t believe you just lied so confidently," she said, finally giggling. "You’re really growing up. But why do you pretend you don’t like him?"

"Um… well… it’s for Grandpa, so…" I tried explaining.

"Well, Roderick and I did have a past—but not the way you think. Remember that man I told you I married for his property?" she asked.

I stood there, stunned.