BE MY OBSESSION

CHAPTER 45

•SHELBY•

This turned out to be way more challenging than I anticipated. I reached out to him with the intention of officially closing the chapter on our undefined relationship, or whatever label you want to give it. Now that he's here, sitting across from me, the words I had in mind just won't come out.

I don't know why, but there's this strange reluctance that's holding me back. It's like there's a barrier preventing me from saying what I need to. It's not easy, because I can't help feeling guilty about potentially hurting him by ending things between us.

Michael is a really amazing guy. He's the kind of man any woman would wish for as a partner, the ideal boyfriend material. It's a shame that he might be missing out on other opportunities while he's often seen around with me.

I guess what I'm about to do might actually be for the best for him.

"Everything alright?" His question breaks my thoughts and I shift my focus back to him.

"Yeah, I'm alright."

"Are you sure? You seem lost in thought."

Here's my chance. It's time to cut to the chase and save us both from dragging this out unnecessarily.

"I'm seeing someone," I admit gently. "I think it's best for us to stop meeting up like this and move forward separately."

The small smile on his face fades and he briefly glances down at the table.

"You want us to stop seeing each other?" I nod, and I notice surprise flicker across his expression as if he didn't anticipate this.

"We've been friends for a long time, Michael. You're important to me, and I don't regret the time we've spent together."

I lean in a little, taking his hand in mine.

"I care about you, and you're an incredible person. But I think we both knew this moment would come, right? If the roles were reversed, I'd understand why you'd want to end things. So, let's part ways without any hard feelings. Besides, I genuinely want you to find happiness. You deserve someone who loves you wholeheartedly and wants to share their life with you."

I give his hand a soft squeeze and I watch a smile slowly return to his face.

"I didn't know you had this sentimental side, Shelby. You've gone soft" He teases, and I roll my eyes playfully as I lean back in my chair.

"Only on rare occasions," I quip back, and he chuckles while taking a sip of his coffee.

"I'm happy for you too. And let your boyfriend know I forgive him for that punch he landed on me, sending me to the hospital. But it's just for your sake."

I stare at him in shock.

"How did you...?"

He shrugs, still grinning.

"It was a hunch, and your reaction confirmed it. I'm glad you two sorted things out."

I return his smile and gaze out of the cafe window. I'm relieved the conversation went smoothly without any hitches.

Michael is understanding, and that's one of the things I appreciate about him. So, I'm content that we've wrapped things up on a positive note.

Leaving the cafe, I head to my car parked on the street, and my phone starts ringing.

I pause, pulling out my phone from my pocket. It's my father calling. With an inward sigh, I answer, masking my annoyance.

"Hello?"

"Clear your schedule for tomorrow night. Shay and Jason's engagement party is happening at our place, and I expect everyone to be there. The media will be present, along with important connections from our business circle."

Straight to the point, as usual.

"Thanks for the heads up. I'll make sure to be there on time."

A pause stretches.

The call is still ongoing, but there's just silence from his end.

"How's Fontane? Have things settled down? I heard he wasn't thrilled about the news. I don't want any issues coming up with you two during or after the engagement party. This event is a chance for us to show that, even if our reputation takes a hit, we're still on top."

Of course, there's more to it. What was I expecting? Everything with my dad always has an underlying motive.

"Don't worry about William, Dad. He's fine. Thanks for the heads up, though. I'll see you when I get home."

I end the call, slide into my car, and drive to the office, ready to officially kick off the day that I've been eagerly anticipating.