Page 90 of My Ruthless Neighbor

“How long has it been since you last ate?”

I pause, trying to recall.

“You don’t even remember, do you?”

I lift a shoulder. “I’m not hungry.”

“But I am.”

I glance up from the file and look at him. “Then why are you still here?”

“I came here to give you the flash drive but now I am taking you out to eat.”

“Like a date?” I tilt my head, amused.

He scowls. “Your sense of humor sucks.” Jumping to his feet, he claps his hand. “Come on, we are leaving.”

“Where’s Hannah?”

“She is waiting for us in the lobby. I already told her you are joining us for dinner at our usual Korean BBQ restaurant.”

“I don’t like it when you manipulate me,” I grumble, snapping the file shut. He knows I don’t like the idea of Hannah—who I love like my little sister—waiting downstairs tired and hungry.

He merely grins. “I know. Now let’s go because my girlfriend gets cranky when she is starving.”

After having dinner with my star employees who are also the pains in my ass, I bid them goodbye and head to my place.

As soon as I am alone, the feeling that was muted because of Hannah and Raleigh comes over me. Guilt. The familiar sense that never escapes me.

The small smile that was lingering on my lips has now vanished.

I breathe out a silent apology. And just like the thousand others, it never does any good.

No matter how many times I apologize, it would change nothing.

I don’t think I would ever stop feeling guilty whenever I am happy.

That’s why I never let myself have a free moment. I avoid meeting my family. Or mingling with acquaintances.

I don’t deserve it.

But Raleigh and Hannah are relentless. They care for me. Their efforts weaken my resolve every time.

I’ve come to accept people’s animosity for my aloof behavior. But those two never bought it. They fought through the narrow opening they saw in my façade and were able to reach the real me.

It was a boon as well as a curse.

They make me forget about why I shouldn’t be happy. And when I forget, it becomes worse.

Like right now. The bitter taste of guilt and grief in my mouth is the penance of spending a good time with my friends.

I crave solitude because I can’t bear to face the consequences of indulging in companionship. Friendship.

My phone buzzes in my pocket when I am outside my apartment door. I pull it out and see a message from Raleigh.

Call me as soon as you see the photos.Can’t wait to hear your thoughts.

Grateful for the distraction for the night, I quickly get in and go through my routine.

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