third time's a charm

39

With Bright finally awake, there were many conversations to be had. As promised, Win remained faithfully by his side. He also took the opportunity to introduce Bright to his parents through a Skype call, assuring them that he would bring Bright home with him once Off and Gun's wedding was over. Thana and Jaylerr received an invitation to the upcoming nuptial too, so they couldn't return home. Thana wasn't complaining though, as she enjoyed Cancun just as much.

"Win..."

As Win returned from fetching breakfast for Bright while leaving him in the company of their friends, he was greeted by a familiar voice. Lilian stood before him, her fingers nervously fidgeting as she looked deeply embarrassed. He hadn't discussed her attendance at Off and Gun's wedding with anyone, and even Bright's parents seemed reluctant to broach the subject. Despite this, Win couldn't deny that he felt a sense of forgiveness towards her, though he hadn't voiced it yet.

As they stood face to face again after weeks of not seeing each other, Win couldn't deny the sudden jolt of animosity. Despite having forgiven her, he couldn't forget what she had done.

"Do you have a moment?" She asked, her voice was soft yet nervous.

He swept her a long glance. Sighing and feeling terrible about all this, Win finally conceded and nodded his head, gesturing for her to follow.

The garden outside the hospital was a haven of tranquility amidst the chaos of the medical center. Lush greenery enveloped the space, with vibrant flowers adding splashes of color to the scene. A cobblestone pathway wound its way through the garden, bordered by neatly trimmed hedges and benches strategically placed for moments of quiet contemplation.

Tall trees provided shade from the afternoon sun, their leaves rustling gently in the breeze. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blossoms, and the sound of birdsong added to the peaceful ambiance. Amidst this serene setting, Win and Lilian found themselves seated on a weathered wooden bench, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Lilian broke the awkward silence, her voice tentative. "You probably still hate me," she admitted, feeling the weight of Win's silence. She couldn't blame him; she hadn't exactly been a model friend.

Win kept his gaze fixed on the garden, the colorful blooms offering a distraction. "What do you think?" he responded; his tone neutral.

The world had gotten really quiet. It felt as if the entire universe was listening to the sound of their emotions. "I feel so foolish," she confided. "I thought something would change...could change if I let him know how I've always felt about him. Bright had always been honest to me, about what he feels about you. I ignored it. I thought it would pass...you kept letting go of his hand, so I thought..." she paused and after a moment, Win heard soft, muted crying. She went on with her entire being trembling, "I'm so sorry, Win. I didn't mean to hurt you, hurt Bright..."

Win's gaze met Lilian's, his eyes reflecting a mixture of pain and resignation. "Why didn't you just drive a stake through my heart when we first met?" he asked, his tone laced with bitter irony. "Instead, you face me wearing all that fake façade, making me think that you're his best friend."

It was true. When they first met, Win was trying to play Cupid. At that time, he wanted to push Bright away because of the curse. He thought Lilian was a good girl, and despite being envious of her relationship with Bright, Win couldn't think of anyone else whom he could leave Bright with in peace but Lilian.

She sniffled. "I threw my arms around your future husband and kissed him with all my heart because I was so happy. For you."

Win flinched. "Seriously?" his tone was cold. "I trusted you."