A Study in Joyful Love - Vol. 4

Chapter 5: A Kaleidoscope World

Carlo stood on the sidelines, watching intently as the cast rehearsed their scenes. His mind, however, was preoccupied with the turmoil in his heart. He made his way towards Director Belle, who was observing the rehearsal.

Carlo: (with a sigh) "Director Belle, I can't seem to shake off this pain. Love and relationships can be so complicated."

Director Belle: (placing a hand on Carlo's shoulder) "Carlo, my boy, love is a beautiful but challenging journey. It's filled with highs and lows. Sometimes, we have to endure the pain to truly appreciate the joy it brings. Remember, you're not alone in this. Take your time to heal and understand your own feelings."

With Director Belle's words of wisdom resonating in his mind, Carlo returned to supervising the cast, trying to immerse himself in the world of theater.

During lunchtime, Carlo found himself driving towards a nearby restaurant, intending to have a meal alone. Just as he was about to park his car, his phone rang, displaying Joy's name on the screen. Carlo answered the call, and Joy's voice echoed through the car speakers.

Joy: "Carlo, classes are suspended due to heavy rains. Can you please pick me up from school?"

Carlo agreed, his concern for Joy outweighing any personal turmoil he was experiencing. When Carlo arrived at the school gates, his heart sank as he saw Joon Woo holding Joy in his arms. In a moment of rage and protectiveness, Carlo rushed towards them, pushing Joon Woo away and quickly guiding Joy into the car.

Carlo: (angrily shouting at Joon Woo) "Know your place, Joon Woo! Stay away from her!"

Seeing Joy in tears, Carlo's anger subsided, replaced with worry and confusion. He drove away from the school, his grip on the steering wheel tight.

Inside the car, the tension was palpable as an intense argument erupted between Carlo and Joy. Tears streamed down Joy's face as she tried to explain that Joon Woo's actions were unintentional, but Carlo's anger clouded his judgment.

Carlo: "Being with you the whole day isn't enough for Joon Woo? He wants to hold your hand? And you didn't stop him? Do you have feelings for him? Is that why you wanted me to pick you up? So I could witness this?"

Joy, overwhelmed by the accusations and her own hurt, could only cry and couldn't find the words to respond. Carlo pressed her further, his voice filled with pain.

Carlo: "Do you want to end this relationship, Joy? Do you want to replace me with him? Is that what you want?"

Joy, torn between her emotions, finally answered through her tears.

Joy: "Yes..."

Carlo's heart shattered as Joy's words pierced through him. He asked her to get out of the car, unable to bear the pain any longer. Joy pleaded with him to stop, to talk things out, but Carlo was too hurt to listen. Joy stepped out of the car, and Carlo drove away, his tears mingling with the heavy raindrops.

Joy returned home, soaked from the rain and heartbroken. Mrs. Luna, worried and sensing her daughter's distress, approached her.

Mrs. Luna: "Joy, what happened? Why are you crying?"

Ignoring her mother's concern, Joy hurriedly made her way to her room, locking the door behind her. Inside, she crumbled onto her bed, her sobs echoing through the silent room.

Meanwhile, Carlo continued to drive, his vision blurred by tears. Lost in his emotional turmoil, he narrowly avoided a collision with a truck, his quick reflexes saving him from a potential accident. The heavy rain served as a poignant backdrop to the pain and despair that consumed him.

In different spaces, Joy and Carlo were left to confront the aftermath of their heartbreaking argument, their paths diverging as they grappled with the weight of their emotions.