“I’m tired,” I said, gently pulling away. “I’m going to bed.”
For a moment, Ethan just stood there, frozen, before forcing a smile. “Alright, you get some rest. I still have work to finish at the office.”
He grabbed his coat and headed out.
As soon as he left, I followed him.
I stayed far enough behind to remain unnoticed, watching as he parked his car in a dark, secluded spot by the roadside. My breath caught when I saw him pull out his phone to make a call.
Not long after, the college girl from the party appeared, jogging up to meet him.
In the biting cold, she shrugged off her coat, revealing everything beneath.
With a cigarette dangling from his lips, Ethan smirked and pushed her into the backseat of his car. Moments later, the luxury vehicle began rocking violently.
I couldn’t watch it any longer. I snapped a few photos and turned away, my stomach churning.
Ethan didn’t come home until near dawn. He slipped inside, quickly showered, and climbed into bed beside me like nothing had happened. Without saying a word, he wrapped his arms around me and fell asleep.
By the time he woke, I was already dressed and packed my bags.
“Claire, what are you doing?” he asked, alarmed.
I kept my tone even, not meeting his gaze. “Getting my visa.”
Ethan’s face paled. He scrambled out of bed, barefoot, and grabbed my arm. “Claire, I…” He stuttered, struggling to form a complete sentence.
I looked at him, my expression cold and unmoving. “What is it?”
He opened his mouth but couldn’t seem to find the words.
“Didn’t you promise to take me to Iceland?” I reminded him.
Relief flashed across his face as he remembered. “Oh! That’s right. Silly me. I’ve been so swamped I forgot. I’m an idiot.” He chuckled nervously, slapping his forehead. “Wait for me. I’ll get dressed and go with you.”
He started toward the bathroom, but I stopped him in his tracks. “Ethan...”
He turned back, his eyes darting nervously.
“Why are you so on edge?” I asked, staring straight into him.
CLAIRE'S POV
Ethan pulled me into his arms, his hands trembling slightly. His voice cracked as he stammered, “I didn’t, Claire. I swear I didn’t. Please, believe me.”
He clung to me like a drowning man grasping for air. “It’s because I love you so much. I’m terrified of losing you. If there ever comes a day when you’re not by my side… I’d go crazy.”
I raised my hand and pushed him away, my voice cold. “Then don’t ever lie to me, Ethan.”