No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

With just a few sentences, I managed to flush Haley's face with embarrassment and anger.

Honestly, her whole persona was a disaster. If she would be the other woman, at least, she should own it with some dignity. After all, Conrad had transferred the deed of the house he was supposed to give me to her. She had every reason to feel confident.

But no, she chose to play innocent despite being caught red-handed. It was like trying to be a saint and a sinner.

"Felicia, you know, Rad won't appreciate this attitude," Haley dared to lecture me.

I couldn't help but laugh out loud. I'd be a fool if I hoped for Conrad's approval.

"Keep his affection for yourself," I retorted, leaving her speechless.

Tears of self-pity quickly welled up in Haley's eyes. It was a good thing I had Ivan with me. Otherwise, her theatrics might have left me speechless.

"Felicia, what do you mean by that? Aren't you two supposed to get your marriage license today?" Haley asked, her eyes gleaming with curiosity and, frankly, a bit of hope. Her ambition couldn't be more transparent.

Suddenly, I decided not to let Haley have the last laugh. "Oh, we're getting it. Conrad consulted with an astrologer for the perfect time. 10:58 A.M., he said. It's supposed to guarantee a long and happy marriage, 'til death do us part, surrounded by a big, happy family."ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

The sparkle in Haley's eyes shattered with my words.

Enjoying her disappointment, I landed another blow. "After we're officially married, we'll celebrate. Make sure to bring a wedding gift."

Haley nearly stumbled, looking as if she was about to fall.

I teased, "Conrad is not here. No one will catch you if you fall."

Her silence said it all. She bit her lip hard, looking frail and helpless, which only made her more appealing to the protective instincts of men. Maybe that was why she had drawn Conrad to her.

But it didn't matter anymore. As of today, Conrad was just another person in my life.

Surprisingly, the confrontation didn't

hurt as much as I thought. There was truth to the saying that leaves didn't turn yellow in one day, and hearts didn't grow cold overnight.

After all the pain Conrad had caused, today's events barely scratched the surface.

"Let's go, Ivan," I called to Ivan as we went out.

a

"Ms. Hudson, maybe there's been a misunderstanding. I should talk to

Mr.

side her and let you hear his

side Ivan suggested, almost pleading.

He must have realized the implications of today's revelation.

"If you were me, would you believe his explanations?" My question left Ivan with no answer.

"Just don't tell Conrad about today." After saying that, I left for the office. My arrival surprised everyone. Ms. Hudson, isn't today your big day with Mr. Wagner? What brings you here?"

"I remembered there's still some unfinished business I need to take care of," I replied, leaving my colleagues speechless.

My dedication to my work was well-known, and I wasn't about to let my personal life affect my professional responsibilities.

[Looks like Mrs. Wagner is setting a high bar for us,] Deborah joked, sending a playful emoji with her message.

I didn't respond but instead focused on clearing my workload.

At 10 A.M., Conrad called, "Felicia, where are you?"

I said, "At the office."

He paused, confused. "Why are you there? I'm coming to pick you up."

"No need. We're meeting at the town hall, right? I'll see you there," I said, then hung up.

After a brief silence, I grabbed my bag but left my ID in the drawer on purpose.