Chapter 7

For three years, I was oblivious to Melissa and Clay's relationship.

The strange scent, unexpected work travel, and increasingly impersonal presents were all indicators that his feelings for me had waned.

I was too naive to recognize it. I constantly made excuses for his behavior, never realizing how quickly emotions can shift. The Clay I once knew had vanished.

When we first encountered each other, I worried my affluent upbringing might push him away, so I pretended to come from a modest family.

As time passed, I grew fond of our simple lifestyle—facing challenges together and watching his career slowly flourish.

In those early days, he was incredibly attentive, regardless of how busy or exhausted he was. He always found ways to delight me, even with something as minor as an unfamiliar brand of lotion. I'd treasure it for ages.