“Angela, what are you doing here? Surely you don't think... Oh no, don't tell me you're jumping to conclusions again.”

A voice feigning surprise came from behind, but I didn't bother to turn around.

“Angela, why the silent treatment?”

Kolton's voice was as cool and detached as ever, and it inexplicably sparked a wave of irritation within me.

“Why aren't you saying anything? Are you suspecting something is going on between Zendaya and me again? I've explained over and over; you're really making this exhausting.”

“Or is this about the project? I told you, let's just consider it a favor for Zendaya. There's no need to…”

He was chattier than usual, which was unlike the typical Kolton. I mused to myself quietly. People always say that when you're guilty, you tend to babble—much like now.

Only after the tears had dried on my face did I turn around. Kolton was still holding Zendaya's hand. The two of them stood side by side, comfortably close. Just like when we were kids, I thought wryly.

Despite the three of us growing up together, I was always the odd one out. There was simply no room for me between them.

Surprisingly, I calmly accepted this fact.

When Kolton noticed my gaze lingering on their intertwined hands, he abruptly let go. His face flushed with awkwardness, struggling to find the right words.

“Angela...”

I gently interrupted him, “About the project, discuss it with my assistant, Hadlee.”

“Let's keep it professional. Follow the procedures, and arrange for the appropriate breach and damage compensation.”

With that, I turned to leave.

But Kolton stopped me. “Let's have dinner tonight.”

I didn't look back. “No, I'm busy.”

Yet Kolton, usually reserved, unexpectedly moved forward and grabbed my arm. I turned my head, our eyes met. There was a complexity in his gaze as he looked at me intently.

“We still need to discuss the engagement plans.”

It was the first time Kolton spoke to me so tenderly. I was momentarily taken aback.

By the time I regained my senses, I had already agreed.

Kolton and I casually arranged to meet at a Western restaurant. In the past, I would always try to keep the conversation going, while he only needed to chime in occasionally. But now, I couldn't be bothered to talk at all. For a moment, silence hung between us.

Eventually, Kolton couldn't take it anymore. Clearing his throat, he said, "Zendaya is getting married. We should..."

I remained expressionless and replied calmly, "Let's put that on hold for now."

Kolton frowned. "Angela, about what happened this morning, I'm really sorry. It was just a moment of impulse. I just don't want you to overthink it..."

I looked at Kolton with an unwavering expression, thinking to myself: what a performer he is. Just as I was about to cut off his predictable apology, both our phones rang at the same time.

"Is this the family of Summer Johnston? She's experiencing severe bleeding and is in critical condition. Family members should come immediately."

"It's best to contact all family members. The situation doesn’t look good this time..."

The fork slipped from my hand and clattered to the floor. Panic surged through me, and I spoke with a trembling voice, "Doctor, please do everything you can, I beg you..."

After hanging up, I instinctively turned to Kolton, "We need to get to the hospital now..."

"Angela, I have to go ahead. Zendaya's dealing with wedding issues today, and she's upset. I should go see her." Kolton interrupted me hurriedly, standing up to leave.

I grabbed his arm, my eyes brimming with tears. "Kolton, my mom is in trouble! You drove here, please get me to the hospital!"

Kolton hesitated. "But Zendaya needs..."

I glared at him, anger rising in my eyes. "Kolton, can't you even show a bit of decency? My mom just received a critical condition notice, do you understand?"

I locked eyes with Kolton, enunciating each word clearly, "You are going to the hospital with me now!"

A flicker of uncertainty crossed Kolton’s eyes. Just then, his phone rang again. He answered, and on the other end, Zendaya's tearful voice could be heard, "Kolton, I feel awful..."

Panic showed in Kolton’s eyes. The next second, he shook off my hand without hesitation. "Sorry, Angela, you should take a cab there. I'll make my way to the hospital later."

Watching him walk away decisively, something inside me broke completely. I couldn't stop to catch my breath.

I raced against time to reach the door of the emergency room, watching the red light above. I clasped my hands together, praying desperately.

But this time, no deity listened to my prayers. The doctor came out and shook his head, indicating I could see my mother for the last time.

I rushed to her bedside, tears streaming uncontrollably. Though her mind was clouded and her breath weak, she struggled to open her eyes when she saw me, her breathing becoming rapid.

She looked past me to the empty space behind, gripping my hand tightly—

"He is... not good... don’t hold on... let go, my dear... be happy, sweetheart..."

My face was already wet with tears. Mother had seen it all along. She knew everything.

That day, by my mother's deathbed, I wept and vowed with a heavy heart—

I would no longer cling to him.

I would no longer love Kolton.