"Echoes of Love"

Part 7

𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝟕

After their memorable trip to Singapore, Lily and Richard returned home, their hearts filled with shared experiences and cherished memories.

While Richard went back to his daily routine, Lily decided to visit her best friend, Mia.

Mia lived in a quaint little house on the outskirts of the city. Her home was as warm and welcoming as she was, filled with laughter and love. When Lily arrived, Mia greeted her with a hug and a bright smile.

As they settled in the living room, sipping on a hot tea, Lily began to share her experiences from the trip. She talked about the places they visited, the food they tried, and the intimate moments they shared. But as she spoke about Richard and their relationship, Mia noticed a hint of worry in her eyes.

"Lily," Mia started, her voice laced with concern, "Is everything okay? You seem a bit troubled."

Lily shake her head. "No... maybe i'm just overthinking.."

Mia came forward to her. "What is it? Tell me."

Lily sighed, setting down her tea.
"Well.. It's Richard."

"What about him? You told me you already had... mmm.."

"Yeah~ but i think theres something wrong about him."

"Lily, i told you, You deserve someone who loves you, only for you, and accept who you are."

The silence between them echoed the whole living room. Then Mia asked her frankly.

"Lily, are you sure you're not just a rebound for him?"

Lily, hurt by the insinuation, defended Richard. "He's not using me, Mia. We have a real connection. He sees me for who I am."

"Whatever you say darling.."

On the other side..

Richard invite George, to his office to discussed about the business trip in Singapore.

George and Richard have a long-standing friendship that dates back to their college days. They have been through thick and thin together, supporting each other during highs and lows, and share a bond that is as close as brothers.

George is Richard's confidant, the person he turns to for advice and comfort. They have a mutual respect for each other, and their conversations often delve into deep, philosophical discussions about life, love, and loss. George was there for Richard when Amelia passed away, providing a shoulder to lean on during the darkest days of his life.

George knew about Lily as it circulating the whole news in town. And it begin to worry him about Richard. He had known him as a grieving widower for so long, and he found it hard to accept his newfound happiness. He questioned his intentions, whispering behind closed doors, his eyes filled with doubt whenever they saw Richard and Lily together.

He's concern stemmed from his protective nature.

"Are you sure about this, Richard?" George, asked him, concern etching lines on his usually jovial face. "You're not just trying to replace Amelia, are you?"

Richard was taken aback by the question. "No, George," he replied, his voice firm. "Lily is not a replacement for Amelia. She's... she's Lily."

"Richard," George began, his voice heavy with worry.

Richard looked up from his papers, his eyes meeting George's. "Yes?" He asked.

George took a deep breath, choosing his words carefully. "I'm worried about you, Richard. I've seen you go through so much pain after losing Amelia... I don't want to see you hurt again."