Chapter 16

I consented without explanation.

Those around me claimed she was being a pushover. I disregarded the rumors and never stood up for her.

I believed I could stick to my strategy and progress gradually.

My career was my top priority.

I viewed Harper as merely an ornamental aspect of my life.

During our first couple of years together, I was consumed by work.

She was like a soft drizzle, quietly nurturing everything, slowly becoming a part of my daily existence.

I gradually grew accustomed to her presence and began to notice her more.

We developed a deeper understanding of each other.

Over time, I could even be described as an exemplary boyfriend.

I assumed things would continue this way until she suddenly turned away from me.

I thought we might quarrel as we had before.

I'd resolve it logically, and normalcy would return.

But our once cozy home felt deserted. After being turned down multiple times, I realized something had changed.