Chapter 4

At two in the morning, the sound of someone entering the door code finally broke the silence.

Connor was visibly startled when he saw me sitting by the window, dropping what he was holding.

"Why aren't you asleep yet?"

He knew my habits well. Usually, even when he came home late, I'd only wait until midnight before giving up, not like tonight.

I set down my wine glasses, walked past him, and switched on the living room light.

Instantly, the quiet space became as bright as day.

Connor loosened his tie, carelessly tossed his suit jacket on the sofa, and strode over to embrace me.

For a moment, I felt disoriented.

Even the engagement suit he wore today, I was the one who had chosen it.

Yet he'd worn it while running to someone else.

"Tired?" he asked placatingly, treating serious matters with his usual casual air.

I quietly inhaled the alcohol on him and raised my hands to push him away.

Connor didn't let go, explaining with complete confidence, "I had a last-minute emergency today. I didn't mean to skip it. Besides, our families have already met. These ceremonies don't really matter, right?

"It's late. Let's not fight, okay?"

When I remained silent, he suddenly remembered something and turned to pick up the paper bag he'd dropped.

"I brought you a little cake from that place you mentioned you wanted to try. I stood in line specially for you."

He affectionately took my hand.

But when he opened the box, the cake was completely smashed, its filling spilled throughout.

Only then did I let out a bitter laugh.

Connor, seeing my expression soften, immediately relaxed.

"It's okay. I'll get you another one later."

Then I asked quietly, "Does she like this bakery too?"

Connor froze. "Who?"

I looked him in the eyes. "Madison."

"You... found out?"

Connor's voice instantly dropped, then sharpened with irritation. "Her mother passed away recently, and she was really upset today. I was worried something might happen to her, so I went to keep her company. You know she doesn't have many relatives. We grew up..."

I calmly finished his sentence. "You grew up together, practically like siblings."

Connor choked and then continued, after a moment, "I've already had the trending topic removed, and we'll release a statement tomorrow."

I just said, "Oh," and slowly started clearing the cake off the table.

"Maybe you should just issue a statement saying you're single."

He frowned, genuinely confused, "What do you mean?"

"Connor."

The bitterness I'd been holding back finally reached my eyes.

I blinked, trying hard not to lose composure, but my voice trembled uncontrollably.

"I'm allergic to mango."