Jacques
The next time I come back to watch rehearsals, I have Eva by my side as protection.
It's my first time to bring her with me, but I know her face isn't new to anyone.
Eva's a heiress in her own right, and we've known each other from childhood. We have the same set of friends, attended the same boarding school, and after university, we've also occasionally partnered together for charity functions.
When it comes to Eva and me, the media has made much ado about nothing over the years, but the two of us know the real score between us. Like Joyce, Eva is someone I don't have to be on my guard with, and that's why I have no trouble asking her to keep me company.
I know she thinks it's because I've missed spending time with her. And while this makes me guilty, I've let the lie stand rather than have Eva know the truth, which is how I'm using her to convince someone that I'm off the market.
Weeks go by, but having Eva by my side every time I attend rehearsals doesn't seem to be doing any good.
The moment she goes up the stage, and the lights go out---
Damn her.
It's the same thing all over again.
She looks at me like she only has an audience of one.
And every word she sings---
Every gesture---
Every gentle sway of her hips---
It's all for me still.
Damn her. Damn her. Damn her.
I can see in her eyes that she's hurting.
Damn her. Damn her. Damn her.
That every time she sees me glance at Eva---
Every instance that I smile at Eva---
Every moment that I spend talking to Eva---
I can see, dammit.
I can see how all of these things are breaking her heart.
So why, dammit?
Why is she singing for me still?
Over a month has gone by when Eva starts to catch on with what's happening.
"I think she has a crush on you."
And it just so happens that my friend has said the words at the exact time Riri's song comes to an end.
Fuck.
The awkward silence that follows is telling. I want to apologize, but I also know I'll make things worse if I do.