Chapter 2

Liam's expression visibly froze.

Clearly, he hadn't expected me to show up. The panic in his eyes? I knew exactly what it meant.

Two days ago, we'd planned a trip to a beach resort.

But the day before we were supposed to leave, he claimed an urgent company matter came up.

He apologized gently, "Audrey, wait for me, just one day. Go ahead without me, I'll be right there as soon as I'm done."

I believed him.

Until my best friend sent me a video, showing Liam and Scarlett appearing together at the movie premiere.

Their intimacy was undeniable, like a couple.

Forgetting all about the trip, I rushed over, only to see my family of three portrayed as villains in the film.

It hit me then.

He wasn't busy; he just wanted to get rid of me.

Liam's eyes met mine, and he quickly looked away, unable to face me.

So, he could be scared too.

Scared of me knowing, scared of facing my anger.

But he still did it, for Scarlett.

A bitter laugh escaped my lips. "Dr. Liam, I'm just curious. The real-life inspiration you, as a therapist, provided to Screenwriter Scarlett for this creative project—where did it truly come from?"

I wanted Liam's explanation.

To give him one last chance.

Liam's face went blank for a second.

The next, he spoke calmly, "Just an old friend's experience."

I froze for a few seconds, then let out a low laugh.

Liam, I'm always too soft-hearted. Luckily, you're far more ruthless than I am.

I was so foolish.

I already knew the answer, but I still wanted to hear how he would lie to me.

Liam saw my eyes redden, and his tone was tinged with concern. "I..."

Just then, Scarlett's slightly sharp voice cut him off.

"That's an excellent question, young lady. It seems you're a true enthusiast of our film. Why don't I share a bit about Liam and my creative journey?"

She launched into her story, oblivious.

"The story in the movie was so heavy, I struggled to put pen to paper for a long time."

"Until I met Liam."

Her gaze shifted to Liam, her admiration thick and undeniable.

"As a top-tier therapist, he dissected the innermost world of people suffering from PTSD for me. We explored the complexities of human nature, the boundaries of crime and punishment."

"He stayed up countless nights with me. Honestly, without him, this movie wouldn't have its soul."

She finished, gazing at Liam with deep affection.

Liam glanced at me, then immediately looked away as if burned, avoiding my eyes.

But he still gave a stiff nod, playing along with Scarlett.

Applause erupted from the audience, mixed with envious gasps.

"Oh my God, they're practically soulmates!"

I quietly watched his face, a self-deprecating smile on my lips.

I'd known Liam for six years, and we'd been together for four.

Now, I was just an "old friend."

The scars I'd once confided in him were now discussed with Scarlett.

He was using my pain to ingratiate himself with someone else.