A Sincere Invitation
Ryan beamed when he heard my words. Even his usuallyposed expression reddened. However, I
felt an overwhelming guilt. Perhaps I had been too cruel to him. Even a simple suggestion like this
could move him so much.
He seemed slightly nervous, saying, “Well… I hadn’t thought about the
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“Then, let’s do it! First, they get to experience the Southern climate. Secondly, It’ll save you the hassle
of traveling. Finally, our families can celebrate together. Oh, I can invite Lauren, too. Her parents aren’t
around, and her younger sister doesn’t move much,
“T’ll invite her to my house, and you can all stay at my ce. No need for hotels. It’ll be super lively.” I
spoke genuinely.
I had met Ryan’s parents before. His dad ran a small business, and his mom had a fixed job. They
were wonderful people. It was a spontaneous idea, and I hadn’t discussed it with my parents. Still, I
believed they wouldn’t oppose it.
“Wouldn’t it trouble you if everyone stayed at your ce?” Ryan seemed hesitant.
“Don’t be so formal with me! You can stay at my ce too. Your family can have the ground floor, and
it’ll be more convenient for all of us. I suggest you consider buying a house in our neighborhood,” I said
offhandedly.
Ryan hesitated for another moment before smiling and saying, “All right, I’ll work on it!”
I
After discussing the details, I got up to leave. When I returned to my office, my desk phone rang
incessantly. I hurried over and saw As’s name shing on the screen. I was stunned and didn’t
answer the call. I just let it ring until it stopped.
Immediately after, I picked it up and realized I had five missed calls. I sat down, feeling powerless and
wondering why As had called. I was in a daze until it was nearly time to leave work.
my bag
My phone rang twice, and I looked at it. Since it was from an unknown number, I put my phone in my
without answering. After clearing my desk and taking my bag, I left my office. However, my phone rang
again as I headed to the parking lot.
I feigned ignorance and drove away from the building. I drove aimlessly through the traffic jam when
my phone rang again, still from an unknown number. I feared it might be a work–rted call and
answered it
this time
However, the caller hung up as soon as I answered. I looked at the pedestrians outside while holding
my
sounded, “Where are you?”
On the road,” I replied, matching his tone.
“Come to Pleca Park” he said and hung up
I almost threw the phone out the window in frustration Although furious, I headed to Pleca Park. This
time, I quickly found my way there. When I arrived at the front gate, I took a deep breath to calm my
racing heart.
I wanted to see him but also feared what would happen when I did. I knew seeing him might mark the
end of something. Suddenly, a young girl rushed over smilingly. “Ms. Chloe, pleasee with me!”
I remained silent and nodded before following her. We went to the second floor and then to As’s
room. The young girl knocked and then pushed the door open, motioning for me to enter.
When I entered, I saw As sitting on a couch with one hand resting on its back and the other holding a
ss of wine. He looked rxed and indifferent as he gazed at me.
I surprised myself at how calm I was. It seemed I had a clear understanding of everything at that
moment. Only we remained in the spacious room. For some reason, I felt As’s loneliness. I slowly
approached him, asking. “Do you have something to discuss with me, Mr. As?”
He watched me with profound eyes as if trying to read my thoughts and true feelings. Meanwhile, I
stood rooted, feeling increasingly ufortable under his intense gaze. He extended his arm toward
me and
said, “Come here.”
However, I remained still. “I’m sorry, Mr. As. Do you need me to do anything?
I
He slowly withdrew his arm while still staring at me. I tried to control my emotions and anxiety when he
said, “It seems you forgot what I said.”