Then, before Olivia could process what was happening, Daniel turned and walked straight toward her.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“I need to talk to you,” he said, his voice low, urgent.
Olivia stiffened. “Daniel, now really isn’t the time—”
“I need to say this before it’s too late.” He exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair.
His eyes searched hers, filled with something raw and desperate. “I think I’ve been lying to myself. I’ve had feelings for you. For a long time.”
Olivia’s breath hitched. Her heart pounded in her ears. She opened her mouth, but no words came out.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“Daniel… you’re about to get married.”
“No, I’m not.” His voice was firm, but his hands trembled slightly at his sides. “The wedding is off. Claire and I had a huge fight. She—she knew about this. She knew I had
feelings for you. And she couldn’t handle it.”
Olivia staggered back a step, her stomach twisting. It all made sense now—Claire’s coldness, the sudden hostility, the way she had pushed Olivia away.
Claire had been punishing her for something she hadn’t even known about.
“You should have told me,” Olivia whispered. “You should have told her before today.”
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
Daniel ran a frustrated hand down his face. “I tried. But Claire wouldn’t listen. And now—” He took a step closer. “Now, I just need to know. Do you feel the same way?”
Olivia inhaled sharply. The air in the room felt heavier, thick with expectation. But then, clarity settled in.
“No,” she said firmly, stepping back. “I don’t feel the same way. And even if I did, this isn’t right.”
Daniel looked like he wanted to argue, but she didn’t give him the chance. She
