Chapter46
I was taken aback, even more so than when he had brought me the art supplies, as the dress seemed like an extravagant gesture. I turned around, surprised, but he had already retreated to the bathroom to change, a sinking reminder that physical intimacy had become yet another casualty.
The distance between us felt like seven oceans, and I knew it would take a long, long time to bridge the gap without the painful memory of his betrayal flashing before my eyes like a constant warning
sign.
I pushed aside any lingering doubts and focused on getting ready, willing to take a tentative step towards reconnecting with Wilson. When he emerged from the bathroom, dressed in a crisp button–up and pants, his jaw dropped in awe as he took in the sight of me wearing the red dress he had bought.
The crimson cherry hue accentuated my features, and the long, flowing design, complete with Juliet sleeves, made me feel like a different person. I couldn’t help but feel a surge of confidence and pleasure in my appearance, and Wilson’s reaction only added to it. He gulped, his eyes wide with admiration, and coughed, clearly taken aback by the transformation.
“You look so beautiful, Leona,” he whispered, his voice barely audible, as he approached me with at slow, reverent step.
He didn’t touch me, didn’t try to risk the gap between us, but simply drank in the sight of me, his gaze roaming from head to toe, taking in every detail of the dress and the person wearing it. He repeated this motion at least three times, his eyes feasting on me, before he finally exhaled a soft sigh and turned away to don his tuxedo jacket.
A wave of discouragement washed over me, and insecurities crept into my mind as I realized that the familiar flutter in my lower abdomen, the telltale sign of arousal, was noticeably absent.
His gaze, once a spark that ignited a fire within me, now felt more like a gentle breeze. Had I become frigid, numb to his charms? I pushed aside the unsettling thought and took a deep breath, calming my racing mind. Tonight was important for him, a celebration of his success, and I refused to let my doubts and fears cast a shadow over it. I steeled myself, determined taking hold, and made a silent vow to put on a brave face and support him.
“Ready?” he asked, his eyes meeting mine in the mirror as I slipped on my trusty off–white glittery
pumps.
They were old, but somehow, they still sparkled with a timeless beauty, much like life itself. I pondered the thought – just as a good investment could yield lasting returns, perhaps the memories and moments we shared, though worn and weathered, could still hold a quiet elegance and enduring value. I smiled, and nodded, “Ready.”
As we set off for the venue, Wilson and I attempting to make light, effortless conversation like a couple should.
Chapter46
45.545
It was satisfying to see how easily he had earned the respect of his colleagues and superiors, his impressive work ethic and wealth of experience clearly making a significant impact.
His boss sang his praises, and the warm glow of admiration and appreciation from his co–workers was his pride. As I watched him navigate the room with confidence and poise, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride, too, seeing the man I once knew so well thriving in his new environment.
The party unfolded seamlessly, but not without its share of challenges. A few catty women shot me side–eye glances, their whispers and snickers carrying on the wind.
I couldn’t decipher the specifics of their hushed conversation In Korean, but their judging eyes spoke volumes.
They scanned me from head to toe, their gazes lingering on every detail, from my hair to my clothes to my posture. I felt like an insect under a microscope.
I guess that’s just the way it is evil and garbage–minded people are everywhere, hiding behind their polished, classy exteriors, waiting for the perfect moment to strike with their venomous judgments.
Wilson, fluent in Korean, might have been able to decipher the nuances of their conversation, he had swooped in to defend me, his words a powerful rebuke to their catty eyes.
“Sesang–i geunyeoleul aleumdabdago saeng–gaghadeun maldeun sang–gwan–eobs–eo,” he
claimed. (I don’t care if the world finds her beautiful) he said, his voice firm and resolute.
“Geunyeoneun ma–eum sog–e tteooleuneun aleumdaum–ui cheos beonjjae
jeong–uiibnida.” (She’s the first definition of beauty that comes to mind)
I didn’t understand what he said either, but he translated it for me when he left. Normally, I would have melted at his support, but tonight, I simply felt a deep sense of gratitude for his unwavering support. I appreciated him standing up for me, even if my heart wasn’t fully ready to swoon just yet.
And just like that, three more months flew by, bringing with them a new progress in Willy’s
journey.
She was now walking a few tentative steps with the aid of wheeled crutches, her shaking hands grasping the handles as she took her first forays into independent mobility.
The sight of her determined face, her legs wobbling with each step, filled my heart with a mix of
emotions – pride, joy, and a hint of nostalgia for the baby she once was. Wilson and I exchanged a glance, our eyes shining with unspoken hope and gratitude for this small but significant victory.
One night, Wilson was running late, delayed by a meeting with an overseas client that had gone on longer than expected. I had already put Willy to bed and was waiting up for him, my mind wandering to the tasks I needed to tackle the next day.
I slipped out onto the balcony, seeking a moment of solitude, the cool night air enveloped me,
Chapters
45.54%
carrying the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the distant sounds of the crickets.
