Chapter 25
I switched off my phone, unable to stare at Giana’s post any longer. The restaurant felt suffocating with its romantic music and
sympathetic glances from staff who realized I’d been abandoned.
Without thinking, I walked into a nearby bar with dim lighting and overpriced cocktails. I needed something strong to burn away
the night’s humiliation.
“Whiskey, neat,” I told the bartender. “Double.”
Two drinks later, the edges of my pain had dulled enough that I could breathe again. The bar had grown crowded, but I barely noticed until a familiar laugh cut through the noise.
Капе.
He sat in a private booth surrounded by well–dressed wolves, his arm around a beautiful brunette. I should have slipped out
unnoticed, but he looked up and our eyes met. His expression shifted from surprise to amusement as he made his way toward me
“The future Luna in a place like this?” he said, leaning against the bar. “I’m shocked.
“Don’t start with me, Kane. Not tonight.”
He studied my red–rimmed eyes and the empty glasses. “What happened?”
“Nothing unusual,” I replied bitterly. “Just Raymond proving Glana comes first. Always.”
I signaled for another drink, but Kane intercepted. “She’s had enough,” he told the bartender.
“I’m not done,” I protested.
Kane caught my wrist. “What did Raymond do this time?”
Everything came pouring out–the birthday dinner, Raymond’s distraction, seeing him with Giana, the damning social media
post.
“It’s my birthday,” I finished, voice breaking. “My birthday, and he couldn’t even pretend to care.”
Kane went still. “Today is your birthday?”
I nodded miserably.
Without a word, Kane paid my tab and signaled to his party that he was leaving. The brunette looked annoyed, but he ignored her.
“I’m taking you
“I’m taking you home,” he said, steadying me as I stood.
“I don’t need your help,” I insisted, though my wobbly legs betrayed me.
“But you need someone’s, and I’m the only one here.”
The cool night air cleared my head slightly. “Your friends–your date-
“Can manage without me,” he replied, opening his car door. “It wasn’t important.”
The drive was quiet except for my occasional directions. I leaned against the window, watching streetlights blur past.
“Why are you helping me?” I asked.
“No one should be alone on their birthday.”
At my house, Kane walked me to the door, steadying me when I stumbled.
“Will you be alright?” he asked as I fumbled with my keys.
I nodded, not trusting my voice. The alcohol made everything too raw, and I feared what I might say if he stayed.
“Thank you,” I managed, avoiding his eyes.
Kane gently tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. “Happy birthday, Aurora,” he said softly before leaving
I watched him drive away, feeling a strange ache that had nothing to do with Raymond’s betrayal.
申本率
