ManyWriters

Melody has an eating disorder and can only consume food I prepare.
To ensure she has hot meals on time, I quit my job to cook for her.
Later, I accidentally overheard her conversation with a friend.
"Melody, why did you lie to Ethan about having an eating disorder?"
I heard her chuckle softly and say, "How else would he be willing to quit his job?"
"At the time, he was an obstacle to my junior's career. I'd do anything as long as my junior could achieve his goals."
It turns out that what I thought was a mutual commitment was, from beginning to end, just my one-sided love.
Well then, I'll let go and wish you both the best.

A Gentle Misplacement

Melody frantically explained to me, "Ethan, I was just joking back then. Don't listen to his nonsense."


Then she urged Donavan to leave quickly.


Donavan wasn't happy about this. He pointed to a bruise on his face and said, "How can you still take Ethan's side? He hit me for no reason last time!"


Melody paused, noticing the obvious bruise. A glimmer of concern flashed in her eyes.


Donavan spoke more passionately, "You have no idea how much it hurts. I just asked him where you were, and he attacked me!"


I watched all of this unfold, feeling unmoved and even a bit amused.


Melody scolded me, "Ethan, no matter what, you shouldn't hit him. And you hit him so hard too. Apologize to Donavan, and let's put this behind us."


Donavan looked at me provocatively, as if to say that no matter what, I'd never measure up to him in Melody's heart.


I watched her once again take Donavan's side unconditionally. Though I no longer cared, my heart still twinged with pain.


Chapter 10