r. Water streamed off her sneakers, and her entire body felt cold and numb. Exhaus

t home before I fall apart." She knew that once she was inside, she could regain control over hersel

ituation couldn't have been worse if it had merely been a rumor. But she had seen it with her own

rayed by the person she trusted most. How long had she been a joke

someone else. His love for her had been nothing but a facade, driven by self-interest rather than genuine affection. Anger and sadness intertwin

nds yet, so Joe was always the first person she turned to. As they approached their final year, Joe confessed his desire to take their relationship from friendship to something more. Lydia was thrilled and excited but also unsu

a graduated, their families suggested that they get engaged as a first step. At the time, Lydia had

mother fell ill, she returned to Thailand to care for her during her final days. Joe was always by her side, offering encouragement and support. Lydia interpret

had trusted too easily, and that trust had come back to haunt her. But now, her e

indness and support he showed were merely part of his plan to use her for h

. But this time, nothing came out-only air from her empty stomach. She hadn't eaten

tened to return, but she fought it off, her brow furrowing with a swirl of confused emotions. She tried to ground herself in

ough the sound of the rain as the headlights of a car illuminated the drenche

provincial bus stop, dimly lit by a few dull neon lights. The man was tall and slender, with broad shoulders-someone who seemed capable of handling anything that came his way. As he approached, Ly

yd

her. Lydia tilted her head, her brow furrowing in confusion. She was so disoriented that the man

d closer, gently supporting her trembling body. "Do

rker

her childhood resurfaced-she saw herself as a small child, climbing over the low fence tha

iet, undeniable strength radiating from him. His presence was solid and r

wet hair out of his eyes. "What are you doin