Chapter 5

Audrey's POV

The day before I was due to leave the country, Julian called from an unknown number.

I hesitated, but answered.

"Audrey."

It was his voice, sounding more tired and hoarse than I had ever heard it.

My finger hovered over the hang-up button.

"Don't hang up," he said urgently, with a hint of pleading in his voice. "Can we just meet, just once? Please?"

I remained silent.

"I've booked VIP tickets for tomorrow's concert. Haven't you always wanted to see that band? I'll go with you."

His voice sounded so sincere, as if we were back in our dating days.

I really did want to go.

Not for him, but for myself.

I wanted to witness firsthand how the last bit of my hope died.

I wanted to put a definitive end to my foolish, self-destructive devotion of the past seven years.

"Audrey, are you crazy?!" Chloe jumped up from the sofa after hearing my decision. "He's got bad intentions! He just wants to reel you back in! Nineteen times, haven't you learned your lesson?"

"Chloe," I looked at her, my eyes calm and firm. "I'm not going for him. I'm going for myself. I need this."

Chloe looked at me, finally giving in.

"Fine, go," she said through gritted teeth. "But you remember this: this is the last time! If he dares to pull any more stunts, I swear I'll make sure someone breaks his damn legs!"

I took out the wedding album, flipping to the next page; these were the last few photos.

I pulled out my lighter.

Chloe sat beside me, watching the flames consume the photo of her radiant smile.

"I agreed to meet, not because I forgive him, but to put an end to this," my voice was a little shaky in the flickering light.

The ashes fell into the trash can, mixing with fruit peels and paper scraps.

The once sacred marriage contract was now no more than trash.

I called Julian back.

"Okay, I agree. Tomorrow evening at six, meet me at the concert entrance."

Julian's voice on the other end held obvious relief. He said everything was arranged, just waiting for me.