chapter 2

I took a hurried shower, the warm water washing over me like a comforting embrace; I didn't want Emily to wait any longer than necessary.

"Am I at your service, my lady?" she joked with mock formality as I emerged from the bathroom, steam billowing out behind me. I smiled, shaking my head playfully at her antics.

Once I applied lotion all over my skin, I slipped into the beautiful black gown Emily had gifted me. It hugged my curves and ended a little too high above my knee—the kind that turned heads wherever I walked.

"Wow, you look absolutely stunning!" Emily exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with admiration.

"Thanks, love. You look amazing as well," I replied. Emily was a vision of beauty—not overly tall, with enchanting blue eyes that perfectly complemented my own gray ones. I watched her as she effortlessly glided into her own gorgeous gown, which mirrored mine in elegance.

Upon arriving at the party, I was momentarily frozen by the exhilarating sights and sounds. The booming music filled the air, wrapping around me like a vibrant blanket, while elegantly dressed ladies and gentlemen mingled with ease. The house before us was nothing short of breathtaking, its grandeur making me reflect on how some people seemed more fortunate than others. I found myself wondering if they faced any problems at all, as the mere façade of the home suggested they lived in a different world—a world miles away from our modest apartment.

After settling into a cozy little corner, we grabbed glasses from a waiter who glided by, his tray brimming with colorful cocktails. It was evident that Emily was the life of the party; her laughter rang out like music, adding to the festive atmosphere. She waved at a passing waiter and quickly reached for another cup of whiskey, her eyes dancing with excitement.

The liquid felt strange yet delightful as it slid down my throat. I had heard from many that sipping alcohol was a great way to amplify the enjoyment of such events, so I decided to embrace it cautiously.

Initially, the party felt somewhat dull, and I began to feel a pleasant light-headedness wash over me. Gathering my newfound confidence, I gestured for the waiter to bring me another round of whatever I was drinking. Emily excused herself, saying she wanted to chat with a friend briefly.

By that point, a genuine smile graced my lips, and I felt a surge of happiness as I swayed gently to the rhythm of the music. Just then, a tall, dashing man approached me, radiating an alluring presence. He appeared to be in his early thirties, with an air of confidence that made my heart race.

"Hello, beautiful," he said with a charming smile. For a moment, I didn't realize he was addressing me.

"Me?" I stammered, utterly surprised that such an attractive and sophisticated man would even notice someone like me.

"Yes, lovely," he replied smoothly, pulling out the chair next to me and settling down with an effortless grace.

I found myself utterly mesmerized by his captivating looks, so much so that I didn't even realize I was staring, my jaw slightly agape. "Oh my gosh, you look so lovely," I blurted out before I could stop myself. What on earth was happening to me? Where did this sudden wave of confidence come from?

It was a pleasure to meet him; his charm was palpable, and it felt like he was flirting with me.

"I'm sorry for not introducing myself properly; my name is Liam," he said, a twinkle in his eye. "And you must be? Freya," I replied, trying to maintain my composure.

"Freya, what a beautiful name for an equally beautiful woman," he complimented, his voice smooth and inviting, and I could feel a blush creeping onto my cheeks. The warmth of the moment combined with the drinks was beginning to intoxicate me, causing my head to swirl pleasantly.

"Excuse me, I need to use the restroom," I said politely, rising from my seat. As I stood, my legs felt shaky, as if the ground beneath me was shifting. I took a few wobbly steps but staggered, and before I knew it, Liam was there, catching me.

"Thanks," I said, smiling in embarrassment as I realized I had drawn the attention of a few nearby guests with my ungraceful exit.

"Sorry about that," Liam quickly apologized, his hands gentle on my arm as he guided me. I leaned against him, grateful for his support, feeling a mix of embarrassment and safety in his presence.

**Liam's POV**

As I looked at her, I couldn't help but think how absolutely adorable she was.

Her small frame leaned against me as I gently opened the front door to the master bedroom. Once inside, I guided her toward the restroom, ensuring she was steady on her feet.

I sank onto the bed, my mind wandering back to the events of the night. My heart felt heavy, a mix of confusion and heartbreak washing over me. How could she do this to me after everything we had shared?

"I've found someone better," Caroline had said, her expression utterly devoid of emotion. I searched her eyes, hoping it was just a cruel joke, but the truth hung in the air like a dark cloud.

"We can work through this if you just tell me what's wrong," I pleaded, feeling as if a piece of my soul was slipping away. I dropped to my knees, desperation clawing at my heart. Five years of memories, of laughter and love—how could it all be crumbling at once?

"I'm sorry," I begged, but she only grew more enraged, her gaze distant, before she turned and walked away. Should I chase after her? I felt paralyzed, grappling with the fear of starting over, the thought suffocating me.

Suddenly, the sound of running water jolted me back to the present—how long could it take to use the restroom? I hurried over, only to find her draped beneath the shower, water cascading down her form.

"What have you done?" I asked Freya, a mix of concern and confusion flooding my senses.

"I feel so hot," she murmured repeatedly, fidgeting with the strap of her clothes. I quickly turned off the water, determined to keep her warm and safe.

"I'm so hot," she insisted, her words slurring together. Who was this adorable, disoriented girl standing before me?

How was I supposed to handle this? I grabbed a towel from the rack, wrapping it around her to offer some comfort. She seemed to be in a stupor, far removed from reality.

"Promise me you won't leave this room," I instructed, rushing back to the bedroom to find something for her to wear. I rifled through my closet, struggling to decide on something appropriate. Finally, I settled on a long-sleeve shirt and hurried back to the bathroom before she could make any impulsive decisions.

"An obedient one, I see," I teased, flashing a smile as she nodded, her demeanor shifting ever so slightly. Maybe the shower had helped clear her head a bit.

Giving her a moment of privacy, I stepped outside.

"Thank you," she said shyly, her smile warm yet vulnerable.