The Wrong Woman

"What about you?" Nathan asked.

"My kindness toward you once brought me ten years of lovesickness. Do you think I'm more resilient now that I should enjoy a taste of sweetness only to endure a lifetime of agony?"

Hearing his words, Mila lowered her head slowly. She bit her lip in a futile attempt to hold back her tears.

She wished she could erase her memories, to return to being just Suzanne, the woman whose heart and gaze belonged solely to Nathan, the woman who only dreamed of being his wife.

She longed for a simpler life, free from the burdens of duty, where her heart could be filled with pure love, and to live a simple life with Nathan. But the reality was harsh. Nathan had his responsibilities, and she had hers.

With tears tracing her cheeks, Mila silently brushed past Nathan and left Sudvilla.

In less than half a minute, Nathan grew anxious. He rushed outside, his steps purposeful. He glimpsed Mila walking along the avenue in the front yard. Catching up to her swiftly, he reached out and grasped her hand.

night sky, bathed in the warm glow of streetlights, Mila wiped away her tears and looked up

with a softened tone, he said, "It's late, and it will be dangerous for you to go home alone.

silently in

for me here," Nathan instructed

he returned, driving his car. Mila climbed into the car, and the car

cityscape, lights danced, and vehicles streamed by while neon signs illuminated the roads. Inside the car, darkness enveloped them, broken only by the fleeting shadows cast by passing streetlights. Silence hung heavy between them, and the tension was palpable. Lost in her thoughts, Mila stole glances at the passing scenery outside. Nathan slowed

silence. "Nate, if I never return, would you marry another woman and have kids?" Nathan paused for a moment before replying,

and yet surprising. If she couldn't return

root like a painful thorn.