ManyWriters

When flames engulfed our apartment complex, my partner Lucas's immediate response was to dash out and rescue his longtime friend and neighbor, Isabella Harris.
Attempting to alleviate my irritation, his companion clarified, "Lucas prioritized Isabella's safety because he felt a sense of duty towards her. Their friendship spans more than ten years. If romantic feelings existed, they would have surfaced by now."
I maintained my composure. "I may not comprehend it, but I acknowledge it. I wish them well. Please keep your explanations to yourself."

Flames, Flowers, and Fractured Trust

Lucas gazed at me intently. "I'm sharing this information not to gain your pity, but to clarify that Isabella and I have never shared a romantic connection.


"It's possible that during her low period, my support led to some emotional confusion on her part, a heightened reliance on me. Moving forward, I'll maintain my distance. Harper, can you find it in your heart to forgive me once more?"


His eyes gleamed with honesty, his mouth set in a serious line.


Unexpectedly, I felt a wave of ease wash over me. "Lucas, my choice to end our relationship wasn't solely because of Isabella."


His expression softened, his eyelashes fluttering. "I understand. I've never mastered the art of loving someone properly. But is there truly no hope for us in the future?"


I glanced up to see the sun shining brightly overhead.


"Lucas, are you aware? Before I decided to pursue you, I had been secretly admiring you for two years."


His face remained unchanged, but a flicker of surprise crossed his eyes.


Chapter 12