ManyWriters

1
From seventeen to twenty-seven, I was head over heels for Everett for a decade, and everyone knew it.
Three years ago, we finally made it official, but Everett still did whatever he wanted, completely disregarding my feelings.
Even on my birthday, he could fly thousands of miles away just because his childhood sweetheart said she "wanted to see snow," leaving me all alone here.
I had finally accumulated enough disappointment with him, and after breaking up, I fled overseas.
I thought that would be the end between us, but Everett, who would normally frown even when I tied his tie for him,
Stood out in the snowy night for hours, his eyes red-rimmed as he asked me:
"Delia, do you really not want me anymore?"

After Ten Years As a Lovestruck Fool, I Choose to Leave

To prepare for my upcoming trip to England and stay on top of the experimental progress, I've been buried in research papers these past few days. Just as I was stretching, about to get up and move around, I noticed several missed calls from Everett on my phone.


Instead of calling him back, I sent a message:


The next second, Everett's video call came through. His end was noisy at first but quieted down as soon as the call connected. Everett pressed his lips together and asked:


My mind raced, but I couldn't recall anything special.


Seeing the confusion in my eyes, Everett's gaze gradually darkened.


After a long pause, he finally said: "It's my birthday today."


No wonder Everett's reaction seemed off. To me, Everett's birthday was more important than New Year's. Every year, I'd start preparing half a month in advance, carefully selecting the perfect gift.


I blinked, belatedly realizing why this scenario felt familiar, and said:


Chapter 7