I Can Make It Right

Caught Red Handed

After leaving my shop, I rushed to my car. It was drizzling, and the parking lot was only a few meters away. My fiancé and I celebrate our fourth anniversary today. We had not seen each other in a year because he was out of the country overseeing their international branch office. His family owns and operates a home appliances store. He only returned home to celebrate our anniversary.

Many of my friends believe I am fortunate to have him. He represents the epitome of a green flag. No vices. He always makes sure I am his top priority. During his stay abroad, we spent our free time communicating via videocall. He was my boyfriend and best friend.

When I returned to my condo unit, I dashed into the bathroom and took a long shower. I made a point of cleaning myself thoroughly. Being the owner of a large and well-known fast food chain does not mean that I no longer work. I need to make sure everything is up to par. I want things to be perfect. I still work in the kitchen with my team.

When I felt clean enough, I wrapped myself in a towel and exited the bathroom. It is time to dress up.

I wore the outfit I bought the other day for this occasion. A white halter back blouse with black long plaited pants. I paired it with black high heels and a black purse. I carefully applied my make-up. I only know the fundamentals because I have no idea how to do it. Without my nieces, I would not know how to shave my brows.

Paul was sitting at our usual table. He was on the phone with someone and did not notice me.

"Okay, babe. I will see you tonight." I furrowed my brow as I heard him say it to someone on the phone.

I kissed him on the cheek, and his face was filled with surprise. He abruptly ended the call.

"H-how long've you been there?"He stuttered.

I lied, saying, "I just arrived." I smiled sweetly at him. "Long enough to hear your loving conversation with someone," I told myself quietly. I gritted my teeth. This is not the time to confront him. He only denies it.

"You look stunning tonight, honey." He kissed my hand. It takes a lot of restraint not to slap his face.

"Thanks, honey. You look good, too," I said, smiling sweetly at him.

Now I understood why he no longer posts anything about us. He used to update his social media accounts.

I will find out. For the time being, I would pretend to be the good girlfriend he expects me to be.

"Excuse me, honey. I need to use the restroom," he said, standing up.

I just nodded. He left his phone on the table, so the odds appear to be in my favor.

I grabbed it quickly, and thankfully it was not locked. "How stupid," I mused. I quickly checked his call logs. Although I expected it, seeing the number and their message exchanges still hurts me.

Paul emerged from the restroom and noticed how pale I was. "Hey, are you okay?" he asked, placing his hands on my forehead.

I almost recoiled away from him. He had been cheating on me for a year. Why did not I realize it sooner?

I cleared her throat, "I think I wanted to go home now."

"Alright," Paul agreed.

When he kissed me on the lips, I wanted to slap him, but I restrained myself.

Paul waited for me to leave first before heading to his car. He was not aware that I was following him.

His car came to a stop in front of a hotel. A woman approached him in the lobby. They hugged before he kissed her. I felt like vomiting. He just kissed my lips a few moments ago.

I tightened my grip on the steering wheel. Now or never. I quickly got out of my car and entered.

I called out to Paul. He turned around, his eyes widening as he saw me.

"Who is she, Babe?" The woman asked Paul. Look at me from head to toe.

I stepped forward and introduced myself. "I am Lee Aera. "Paul's fiancèe," I said, extending my hand to the woman, who just raised her eyebrows.

Her expression indicates that she understood who and what I am to Paul.

"Ho-honey, let me explain," Paul attempted to pull me away.

"No, you don't need to explain."I said it with gritted teeth. To keep myself under control, I take long, deep breaths.

"So you are Aera," she said smuggly. "No surprise Paul cheated on you. "Look at you," she said mockingly.

"It is no surprise Paul cheated on me with you; look at you!" I shot back. I raise an eyebrow as I look her over from head to toe. She wore a spaghetti strapped red mini dress with red high heels. Her face was covered in full-on makeup.

"Honey, please."Paul moved closer to me and grabbed me around the waist. Trying to pull me away from the "other woman."

I free myself from his hold on me. "Don't worry, I'm not going to do anything," I stated calmly then told the girl, "You can have Paul. I don't need a liar and cheater." I walked away without looking back.

"Aera, honey!" Paul called out to me. I can also hear the woman calling for Paul.

I pretended not to hear anything and kept walking outside towards my car.

I drove as fast as possible. I didn't cry at all. I got to shower and change into my pajamas. Not until I saw the framed picture of Paul and me on my bedside table. That was when I felt the pain of what he had done. I snatched it and threw it against the wall. I burst into tears as I reflected on our time together.