Chapter 24: Wanting to Be Close
The romantic scene of floating balloons didn’t really stir any emotions in Chloe and Mia. Both women weren’t particularly interested in such things, though the crowd around them was thrilled.
Taking advantage of the distraction, they finally managed to push through the crowd and head to a nearby restaurant for lunch. Being the weekend, the place was packed.
Meanwhile, Julian and Layla were standing in line for ice cream. The line ahead of them was long, and though they were close to the front, Julian was beginning to lose patience. The heat and the long wait were taking their toll, and his face was starting to show signs of irritation. Layla noticed his discomfort and quickly tried to soothe him.
“Just a little longer, darling. We’re almost there,” she said sweetly.
As she spoke, a couple passed by them. The woman was holding a large bouquet of red roses, her face glowing with happiness, while the man carried a box that said “Happy Birthday” on it–likely a birthday gift for her. The sight of such joy filled Layla with anticipation. What kind of birthday surprise had Julian prepared for her?
Unaware of her thoughts, Julian was simply growing more annoyed with the crowd. If he knew what Layla was hoping for, he’d likely laugh coldly. He had never prepared surprises for Chloe, and it certainly wasn’t going to happen now.
After lunch, Mia took Chloe to see an animal show. The arena was packed with people, but the air conditioning was cool and refreshing, offering a welcome escape from the heat outside. While Mia was excited about the show, Chloe was more interested in the comfort of the air conditioning.
Mia enthusiastically had Chloe take several photos of her before the show ended. Afterward, Chloe handed her things to Mia and excused herself to the restroom.
As she entered, Chloe spotted Layla washing her hands at the sink. Chloe paused briefly but continued on her way, not intending to engage. However, when she exited the restroom, she found that Layla had been waiting for her.
Although Chloe wasn’t planning to speak, the atmosphere between them had become strangely tense. Just as Chloe was about to leave, Layla finally broke the silence.
“Chloe, what a coincidence! How have you been?” Layla said, her tone light but with a hint of something
more.
Since Layla had spoken, Chloe couldn’t just ignore her. She turned and smiled politely. “I’ve been doing well.”
Looking into Chloe’s calm eyes, Layla couldn’t tell if Chloe’s composure was genuine or an act. If it was an act, she was certainly doing a good job.
“Really? But you’ve moved out of the villa. Going from heaven to earth like that must have been tough, right?” Layla said, probing for a reaction.
“You’re not me, so how could you know how my life is? Or maybe you’re just curious about how I’m doing? “Chloe replied smoothly.
“Of course not,” Layla quickly said, switching tactics. Actually, I should thank you. If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be able to stand by Julian’s side now. You have no idea how much I love him, so thank you for letting me have him.”
Chapter 24: Wanting to Be Close
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Layla’s words dripped with insincerity, but Chloe remained unfazed, listening without reacting.
“Oh, did you see those balloons earlier? He secretly arranged them for me, along with my birthday gift,” Layla continued, showing off the bracelet on her wrist. “He said it looks even better on me and that he can’t help but want to be even closer to me.”
Layla’s tone was that of someone reveling in their relationship, as if she were basking in the glow of love. Chloe recognized the bracelet–it was the same one she had seen in the jewelry store when she ran into Julian and Adam.
So, that’s what the gift was for, she thought.
“That’s nice. Congratulations,” Chloe said calmly before turning to leave.
When Chloe exited the restroom, she saw Mia waiting for her outside, caught sight of Chloe’s expression, her smile faltered.
3 enthusiastically. But as Mia
“What happened? Did something go wrong, or are you still hungry? We can always go somewhere else to eat more,” Mia suggested, concerned.
Chloe shook her head. She had been in a good mood, but her encounter, with Layla had dampened her spirits. “I’m just a little tired. I think I’ll head home.”
Mia pouted. “But we’ve only been here for two hours! I drove for nearly two hours to get us here, and now you’re telling me you want to leave? No way! If you’re tired, we’ll just get some food to recharge. Plus, I already bought tickets for the next event, and they’re non–refundable!“.
Mia’s exaggerated pout and pleading eyes made it impossible for Chloe to refuse. Sighing, Chloe asked, What’s the next event?”
“The haunted house, of course!” Mia said, beaming.
Chloe felt her mouth twitch at the mention. Mia was always so strong and decisive in her work but was terrified of ghosts and darkness. She was one of those people who was scared but loved to play along anyway.
“What’s that look for? Sure, I’m scared of ghosts, but with you by my side, I won’t be scared at all! You’ll keep me safe,” Mia insisted confidently.
Chloe didn’t respond, opting for silence instead.
In the end, they made their way to the haunted house entrance. Mia pulled out the electronic tickets she had purchased earlier, and they entered.
As soon as they stepped inside, a cold gust of wind blew through, causing Mia to shiver. She hadn’t even gone far, but her legs were already starting to feel weak. The distant screams from within only fueled her desire to flee.
Just as Mia was about to take a step back, Chloe grabbed her hand.
“Don’t back out now. If you’re really scared, we can leave through the exit over there,” Chloe pointed to the nearby door.
Mia, determined not to chicken out, shook her head. “No way! We already paid for the tickets. We’re doing this!”
Chloe couldn’t help but sigh internally. It looked like she’d have to be ready for Mia to run off at any
