Page 85 of Severed Rivalry
“Love you, Angel. But I thought we agreed to say it in person and not over the phone.”
Her small laugh greets me. “I did. You hadreallygood drugs when I told you.”
I missed it? Fuck me.
But at least she told me.
We fall asleep together, after a long day and an emotionally wrecking conversation, our phone lines left wide open all night.
Before
“Why? I thought…” I don’t get it. This makes no sense. “You love me and I love you. We’re each other’s forevers.”
“I’m sorry you thought that, Cian. I really am. But it’s over.”
“I don’t accept that.”
“You don’t get a choice.”
Damn. Ripping my heart out and squeezing it until it explodes would hurt less.
What do I do? She’s the one. She’smyone.
“Renée. Angel.”
“Don’t call me that. I’m sorry. I— I have to go.” She leavesmy apartment and runs for a car I’ve never seen, bailing into the backseat. What the hell?
I watch through the windows. I want to chase after her. And I don’t want to be the loser who runs a woman who obviously doesn’t want him.
My ego and my heart war for dominance until I realize pride means nothing without something to be proud of.
I jump in my car and an almost to her apartment when my phone rings.
“Dude. Graduation in under a month. You ready?” Cooper asks over the speakers.
My mind spins. Could I leave here? No, not if there’s a chance. Stay here without Renée? That’s a big fat no. Everything here is ours, not just mine.
“Let me call you back. I’m walking into class.” It’s a lie. I don’t even know why I answered. Habit, I guess.
I knock on Renée’s door to no answer. Knocking again, I call, “Angel, open up.”
Finally, I take out my key and let myself in.
What greets me obliterates the shards of hope I have left. Her apartment is a wreck. Her bedroom closet is nearly empty. Same with the dresser drawers. Everything else remains.
She’s… gone. She left.
I spin in place, confused, when a piece of paper catches my eye.
Ci,
I don’t know if you’ll ever see this. Part of me wishes you won’t. The other part hopes you will.
I had to leave. I had to let you go. I’m sure I said terrible things to make that happen.
I’m so sorry. I’ll always be yours
Love,
