The Runaway Husband

Chapter 45

Hazel

Tex returns to his apartment, grappling with memories of his past with Evelyn that continue to haunt him. Determined to open up to Katherine about his past, Tex purchases flowers and chocolates for her, hoping to express his affection and gratitude.When Tex attempts to broach the subject of his past with Katherine, she interrupts with news of their upcoming performance in Centennial. Tex's anxiety spikes as he realizes that Centennial is his hometown, a place he fled from to escape painful memories.Despite Tex's reluctance to return to Centennial, Katherine insists that they cannot change their plans, as all arrangements have been made and the concert is set to proceed as scheduled.Tex reluctantly agrees to go along with the plan, but as they prepare to leave for the airport, he makes a split-second decision to escape from the situation, slipping away unnoticed by Katherine and the rest of the band.Katherine's frustration and worry mount as she realizes Tex is missing. Frantically searching for him, she questions the band members, only to discover that Tex has disappeared.Panic sets in as Katherine contemplates the implications of Tex's disappearance. Despite her anger and frustration, she ultimately decides to confront Tex directly, calling him on his phone and demanding answers.Tex initially tries to evade Katherine's questions, but faced with her unwavering determination, he eventually confesses that he's back at his apartment, afraid to return to Centennial but willing to perform for Katherine.As Katherine grapples with her conflicting emotions, Tex promises to return within two days, pledging to fulfill his commitment to her despite his fears.The chapter ends with Katherine torn between her anger at Tex's disappearance and her desire to understand and support him, uncertain of what the future holds for their relationship.

Two days later..

Hazel found himself at the Centennial airport, flooded with memories of his past as he stepped onto familiar ground. Nostalgia washed over him as he hailed a taxi, uncertain of where to go. Eventually, he directed the driver to Claire's Café, a place he remembered fondly.

As he approached the café, Hazel couldn't help but notice how much it had changed over the years. With a mixture of excitement and apprehension, he paid the taxi driver and made his way inside. Thoughts raced through his mind—what would he say to Claire? Would she recognize him after all this time?

Spotting Claire across the room, Hazel's heart skipped a beat. She looked elegant, more mature than he remembered. When she caught his gaze, she approached him, and he struggled to find his voice as he greeted her.

"Hello, Claire," he managed to say, his voice trembling with emotion.

Claire's eyes widened in disbelief. "Hazel, you're alive?" she exclaimed, barely able to comprehend the sight before her.

Their reunion was filled with emotion as they embraced, both overwhelmed by the unexpected encounter. Finding a quiet corner, Hazel began to recount the harrowing tale of his past—the marriage orchestrated by Evelyn as an act of revenge, and the events that led to his presumed death.

Claire listened intently, her shock evident as Hazel revealed the truth behind his disappearance. She explained how he had been declared dead after a body was found in a car accident wearing his wedding ring, leaving everyone to believe he was gone forever.

Curiosity piqued, Hazel inquired about Claire's life since their last meeting. She shared her journey of growth, success in her business endeavors, marriage, and the joy of motherhood with a baby boy.

In turn, Hazel divulged his own secrets, revealing his identity as a member of the Mysterious Knights boy band, now known as Tex. Claire was stunned by his revelation, unable to fathom that her childhood friend had become a global sensation.

Upon Claire's insistence, Hazel agreed to meet his parents, although he harbored doubts about their reaction to his reappearance. They exchanged contact information, and Hazel promised to arrange VIP tickets for Claire and her family to their upcoming concert.

Before parting ways, Claire offered to accompany Hazel to the market to purchase shades and masks. As they walked, Hazel's attention was momentarily diverted by a display of roses. Absentmindedly, he removed his mask to smell the flowers, forgetting to put it back on.

In that vulnerable moment, Hazel was approached by a woman who called out to him as "Hazel." Startled, he turned to face her, only to find himself at a loss for words. The woman introduced herself as Jessica, Evelyn's best friend, sending a shiver down Hazel's spine.

Fearing the worst, Hazel quickly paid for his shades and attempted to leave, but Jessica grabbed his wrist, stopping him in his tracks. Anxious to avoid any further confrontation, Hazel made a swift exit, disappearing into the bustling crowd of Centennial.

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A/N
Dear readers,

I want to take a moment to apologize for the irregularity in uploading chapters recently. Life's unexpected turns have made it challenging to stick to my usual schedule.

I understand how frustrating this can be, especially when you're eagerly awaiting the next chapters .

Please know that I deeply appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.

Your support means the world to me, and I'm committed to returning to our regular schedule as soon as possible.

In the meantime, I'll do my best to keep you updated on any changes or delays.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding.