I threw myself into my studies, joined the school’s math club, and met Gabriel Campbell. He was tall and lean, wore black–rimmed glasses, and had a sunny smile.
He excelled at mathematics and often tutored me. Gradually, we became close.
Just when I thought life was finally getting back on track, Sebastian’s letters arrived one after another, persistent and relentless.
[Rachel, are you still angry with me? I know I was wrong. Please come back.]
[Rachel, Viv is pregnant. The child is mine. I know this is hard for you to accept, but please believe me. You’re the only one I love!]
2
[Rachel, surely there’s a limit to sulking. What do I have to do for you to forgive me?]
I tore his letters to shreds and threw them in the trash. I had no idea what gave him the
audacity to think I would change my mind. It was probably just thick skin.
That day, the restaurant where I worked part–time was filled with cooking fumes as I efficiently cleared tables. Looking up, I saw Gabriel sitting in a corner booth.
He smiled at me gently, but I avoided his gaze and continued working. When my shift ended, he was still sitting there with several untouched dishes in front of him.
“Let’s eat together.” He gestured to the seat across from him.
“No need. I’ve already eaten.”
I tried to decline, but my stomach betrayed me with an audible growl.
He chuckled softly. “Being shy won’t help. Come sit down.”
Unable to refuse his kindness, I sat across from him. The hearty stew bubbled in the pot, its
warmth dispelling the chill from my body.
I ate ravenously, completely abandoning any pretense of manners.
“Eat slowly. No one’s competing with you.”
2/3
Chapter 7
+25 Bonus
Halfway through the meal, I suddenly felt something tickling my nose. Looking up, I saw Gabriel watching me with amusement, holding a small piece of carrot between his fingers.
“Does your face want to eat too?” he teased.
My cheeks flushed as I lowered my head in embarrassment. I knew he liked me–his eyes held nothing back. However, I only wanted to focus on my studies right now.
Everything else could wait.
When Christmas break arrived, Penelope’s calls came one after another, urging me to come home for the holidays.
