Our Forbidden Love

IV : Bittersweet

Fallon's POV

Time seemed to stretch endlessly whenever she was near, and I loathed it. Her presence gnawed at me, and her casual demeanor only deepened the sting of her past actions.

"Sushi?" Rayne asked, breaking my thoughts. I shook my head.

Despite the awkwardness, I insisted on driving. This time, Rayne's left hand rested on my right leg, a grounding touch to prevent me from disassociating.

From the rearview mirror, I stole a glance at Cataryna in the back seat, her eyes fixed on the stars outside her window. She hadn't changed much, and it was a bittersweet realization. Her calm presence reminded me of simpler times, even though the air between us was now thick with unspoken words.

"The new Samgyupsal Resto nearby?" she suggested, breaking her silence after ten minutes and initiating a conversation.

Rayne shrugged, while Hannah and Harriet were engrossed in their own chat. I could only look at her, sensing her tension from the lack of verbal responses.

"Sure, that might work out," I replied.

She smiled and whispered a thank you. She really hasn't changed much—still the same person I knew from years ago. It's comforting to see that some things remain constant amidst all the chaos.

...

As Harriet and Hannah wandered off hand-in-hand, their budding romance was apparent. Watching them stirred a mixture of envy and longing within me—not for either of them, but for the simple comfort and warmth they shared in the chilly night.

"Fallon, are you coming or not?" Rayne's voice broke through my thoughts.

"You guys go ahead. I need to check something," I lied, forcing a smile as she kissed my forehead and stepped out of the car.

I sighed deeply, gripping the steering wheel. The night felt cold and empty. Am I just a hopeless romantic, or is the universe still working on my path? My heart ached with uncertainty, but a tiny spark of hope flickered, reminding me that perhaps, somewhere in the vast cosmos, things might yet fall into place.

"Oh fuck it." I mumble to myself, as a hand squeezed mine. "What the fuck?!"

Cataryna chuckled. "I thought you went with them! How long have you been watching me?"

She licks her lips. "Since you started your blabbery."

"Get out, Cat. I need some time alone."

"You're letting me out by myself at night?"

"It's the beach! Rayne went out by herself, I'm fucking sure you could also do such thing!"

Cataryna seemed taken aback by my sudden outburst. She has her hand over her chest.

"Actually you know what- stay here as long as you want, pillow princess. I'm leaving." Just like that, I made sure I was out of her and everyone's sight.

I opened my Spotify and played the playlist I made for myself. First song to play was Best Friend by Rex Orange County.

Tears streamed down my cheeks. How could someone be so close yet feel so distant? I hate to admit it, but if she finds me and holds me close tonight, I'd welcome her with open arms.

We could pick up where we left off. I'd give her this blind chance.

"Don't be such an idiot, mademoiselle," my conscience whispered.