I turned to leave, tears blurring my vision, filled with grievance and anger.

Back home, I curled up on the sofa, replaying the scenes from earlier in my mind.

My phone vibrated; Victor's message was: [Are you okay? Do you need someone to talk to?]

I stared at the screen, suddenly struck by a bold idea.

Maybe it was time to teach James a lesson.

I focused on the phone screen, my finger trembling as I hit send.

[Victor, I want to see you.]

Almost instantly, Victor replied: [Sure, I'll be right there.]

I took a deep breath, trying to calm the turmoil inside me.

Less than half an hour later, the doorbell rang. I opened the door to see Victor's concerned gaze.

"What happened?" he asked softly, worry evident in his eyes.

I couldn't help but jump into his arms, tears streaming down my face.

Victor gently patted my back, reassuring me, "It's okay, I'm here."

I looked up at his gentle eyes, a sudden impulse surging within me.

Just as I was about to kiss him, the door suddenly swung open.

James stood at the door, his face pale, filled with anger and disbelief.