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Chapter 7
Back then, my answer had never changed, not after all those years. "I believe in my boyfriend. He'll be successful, and I'll be even happier in the future."
That declaration, along with a few sharp remarks, shattered Mark's heart. No matter how hard he tried, my feelings for him never wavered. Frustrated, he lashed out, called me foolish and ungrateful, then turned and walked away. Not long after, he left the country to study abroad. That was the last time we ever saw each other.
Now, Sonny had indeed achieved success, but happiness? That was something I hadn't found.
"We're no longer together," I admitted, my voice steady. Then, without hesitation, I continued, "Mr. Ruffus, my family's company is on the verge of collapse. Your help would mean everything to us."
Mark's expression shifted. He leaned back, stretching out his tense frame, his long fingers folding together thoughtfully. He didn't want to take advantage of my misfortune, but he also wasn't about to let this opportunity slip through his fingers.
"I can sign this contract," he said.
His eyes held a quiet expectation. I was no longer naïve, I knew exactly what that look meant. But I didn't hesitate.
"What's your condition, Mr. Ruffus?" I asked bluntly.
He smirked. "You've always known what it is, haven't you?"
I studied the man before me. Once upon a time, he had liked me, selflessly, without an agenda. But now? Reality left no room for illusions.
"Say it plainly," I replied. "I don't want any misunderstandings."
"You haven't misunderstood," he said simply.
I nodded. Agreement. Acceptance.
"I'll be moving to Lagado City in three months," I informed him. "I've been transferred there."
"That works for me," Mark said. My decisiveness clearly caught him off guard, but he wasted no time. Afraid I might change my mind, he quickly signed the contract.
"Our branch office is in Lagado City as well," he added. "I'll send you the address later."
With Mark's resources, my family's furniture business was soon back on its feet.
It wasn't long before Sonny caught wind of my deal with Mark. A mutual acquaintance must have told him. After a month of complete silence, he finally called me.
"Why didn't you come to me when your parents' company was in trouble?" His tone was accusatory, as if he had the right to be angry. As if he hadn't been absent this whole time.
"Why would I?" I asked, genuinely baffled by his sudden concern. "It's my parents' company, not yours."
"What's that supposed to mean?" he demanded.
I kept my voice calm. "I didn't want to bother you. You should focus on staying by your dear little sister's side at the hospital."
There was no bitterness in my tone. No sarcasm. Just a statement of fact. A month was more than enough time for a woman to see things clearly and move on.
"Bella, I know you're upset because I neglected you," Sonny said, his voice softening, coaxing. "Nicole is getting better. Once she's out of the hospital, we can start planning the wedding again. Then, "
"There's no need," I interrupted coolly. "I forgot to tell you, I've decided not to marry you. I've already informed my family that the wedding is off. Make sure to let your friends and relatives know as well."
Before he could explode in anger, I ended the call and immediately blocked his number.