Semua Bab Love Burned to a Crisp: Bab 1 - Bab 9

The delicate chain held a small, dull stone. Its simplicity made it feel almost like an afterthought.It was made by Shelby's favorite brand."Tucker, I don't want to go. My legs still haven't healed."He scoffed, pretending not to hear me. "Stop being difficult. Go change," he barked.When I didn't move, Tucker's brows knitted in frustration. He gripped my wrist tightly and pulled me up, indifferent to the pain coursing through me.In the car, I curled into myself, overwhelmed by waves of discomfort. Meanwhile, Tucker gazed out the window. His face was cold and unreadable.Tonight's party was a celebration of Shelby's successful art exhibition.In the grand hall, she stood in an elegant gown that captured everyone's attention.Tucker gave me a sharp nudge. "Make sure you properly apologize to Shelby. Don't upset her again."Apologize? Wasn't I already humiliated enough?I stared at the simple necklace around my neck before shifting my gaze to Shelby. She wore one from the sa

One day, my phone buzzed with a new post from Tucker's social media. The caption read, "I'm finally free of someone who wasn't right for me. Life feels so much lighter now."Though brief, the message was laden with disdain and indifference. It made me feel like I'd been nothing but a burden—and now, he was openly celebrating his so-called freedom.A moment later, a friend messaged me."Hey Willow, did you see Tucker's post? He's clearly trying to get a reaction. He probably thinks you still care."She sent a resigned emoji.I smiled calmly and replied, "Let him believe that. I stopped caring long ago."Not long after, another notification came through—this one from Shelby's social media.In the photo, she stood arm-in-arm with Tucker, set against the backdrop of her new exhibition's opening night.The caption read, "Thanks to Mr. Davenport's unwavering support, my latest exhibition is a success. I'm so grateful to have you with me."They posed side by side before Shelby's artw

Tucker couldn't stop thinking about all the little things he had ignored. A growing sense of regret settled deep in his chest, intensifying over time.One day, he casually suggested that Shelby try making the kind of soup I used to make for him.Shelby scoffed. "Damn it, Tucker, I'm not your maid. Why do you expect me to do everything? I've had enough."Tucker's heart sank. For the first time, it hit him that Shelby's presence didn't bring the peace he had imagined. Instead, his life had become even more chaotic.On another occasion, Shelby walked into Tucker's office holding a stack of exhibition materials. She smiled brightly as she said in a sweet, almost syrupy tone, "Tucker, my new art show is coming up. This time, the venue and promotion need a serious upgrade, or it'll come across as cheap."She tossed the paperwork onto his desk. Her eyes were brimming with entitlement.Tucker's brow furrowed as he looked up at her. His tone was firm but measured. "Shelby, the company's c

Under the bright lights of the gallery, I raised my glass, surrounded by the cheerful laughter and heartfelt congratulations of new friends. I was filled with a sense of peace and joy.After years of relentless effort, I'd finally claimed the recognition I deserved. My life felt meaningful and orderly, like a canvas slowly coming to life with color.Without warning, a familiar male voice cut through the lively atmosphere."Willow."I turned to find Tucker's eyes locked on mine.He stood at the edge of the crowd. His face was clouded with hesitation and unease.What was he doing here?The thought flickered through my mind, but I quickly masked it with a faint nod. "Hello, Mr. Davenport. What a surprise."He seemed unsettled by my casual tone. Forcing a smile, he said, "I happened to be in town on a business trip and thought I'd stop by your exhibition. Looks like things are going well for you."I returned a faint smile, feeling nothing but emptiness inside. "Thanks. But I don't