When Logan courted me, it was evident from the start that he was truly serious about our relationship. He put in an extraordinary amount of effort, giving me his undivided attention. However, he took the unexpected turn of rekindling things with his ex-girlfriend, leaving me heartbroken.
The pain I felt was immense. Fortunately, my family made the decision to leave Clayland behind and start afresh in the vibrant city of Azura. After several years, I never anticipated crossing paths with Logan again, but fate had a different plan—he resurfaced as an investor in our business! Damn it! I was furious with my brother for accepting him into our company!
And then, I met Riyu.
While he splits his time between Azura and his business in Claybourne, Riyu's patience and unwavering determination when it comes to me are truly remarkable. I am aware that both of us are not getting any younger, especially with the societal pressure to settle down. But Riyu has never made me feel rushed, and that's one of the qualities I admire about him.
It's been around six months since he resumed his courtship with me. During this time, I have come to see glimpses of Logan's true colors. All I want to do is embrace Riyu and shower him with love, because that's exactly what he deserves.
I have also made up my mind to give him my answer this Sunday, even though he's currently in Claybourne for a meeting. Despite his physical absence, we have managed to stay in constant communication. In fact, we are currently having a video call as I unwind from a stressful meeting with potential investors. We are contemplating expanding our business into Japan and China.
"That Mr. Lim is so infuriating. Our discussion was going well, and they have the upper hand due to the significant benefits we can gain from them. They have unparalleled access to the Chinese industry, but that old man still attempted to deceive me," I vented my frustration to Riyu.
He looked at me with a serious expression. "Why didn't you ask for help? I'm ready to assist you. We have numerous connections in China, and even in Europe," he offered sincerely.
I gazed back at him, expressionless. "Come on, you've already helped me tremendously. Do you think I'm incapable of feeling embarrassed? I want to tackle this challenge independently. I know there's still much for me to learn, and I want to do it without constantly relying on others."
He nodded understandingly. "I want to see you grow in your own way, but always remember that I'm here whenever you need my support," he reassured me with a warm smile. I know I can rely on him whenever necessary, but I don't want to take advantage of his kindness.
"Thank you, but don't you have other tasks to attend to right now? You seem to be at the office. Just let me know if I'm disturbing you... I apologize for inconveniencing you. Alice is away on a business trip with my brother in Singapore, and Kyla is temporarily assisting me," I informed him.
He shook his head. "Krystal, I will always make time for you. You don't need to worry about asking such questions. And if I happen to be busy, I will let you know," he assured me.
I nodded in understanding. "Point taken, but do you really need to return to Claybourne?" I inquired.
He teasingly smiled at me. "Are you already missing me?" he joked, well aware that he caught me off guard.
"Well, you've been away for nearly two months. What did you expect? Did you want me not to miss you?" I quickly retorted.
"No! Of course, I want you to miss me all the time. Because I miss you a lot too. It bothers me that I have to manage the family business and handle the hacienda. My brother is still in recovery," he explained.
"I'm really sorry, I got caught up in my meeting," he apologized once again. I appreciate this guy for genuinely embodying chivalry.
I brushed off the topic by saying, "Come on, I said it's fine. Just like me, you're a busy businessman. I should be grateful that you've given me your time," I assured him.
"You have no idea how much I wanted to invite you on a date earlier, but you were occupied. I almost thought I wouldn't have this opportunity," he confessed nervously.
"Don't worry about it. It's just me," I reassured him. "That's why you dropped your phone yesterday," I playfully teased him even further.
His face turned crimson, so I handed him a glass of water, hoping to calm him down a bit. Seeing him flustered, I couldn't help but appreciate how attractive he was.
Like many Azuran guys, Riyu possessed a muscular physique with a touch of femininity, thanks to his fair complexion. Skin color holds significant importance for both men and women in this region.
In response to my teasing, he scratched the back of his head. "Well, honestly, that caught me off guard. I have had a huge crush on you..." he confessed. At that moment, I could feel my cheeks blush in response to his sudden revelation. He's truly amusing.
"Why do you have a crush on me?" I asked him curiously.
"I'm not the only one, just one among many. Besides your beauty, you radiate like a bright sunshine. You're kind, driven in your career, and your bravery shines through. That's the kind of woman I admire," he explained. I appreciate how he perceives me as a woman.
"Really? I'm glad that you see me that way," I responded.
"What about you? What made you suddenly take an interest?" he inquired. I expected him to ask that question—it's only natural to wonder.
I had purposely distanced myself from Riyu for a while, so his confusion was understandable. Now, I contemplate whether or not to share the truth with him. But ultimately, I realize it's his right to know.
"I want to be honest with you. I believe you're someone I can trust with this topic," I confided in him.
He focused intently, assuring me, "You can trust me. Whatever you share with me will stay between us," he promised solemnly. I couldn't help but let out a light chuckle.
"Perhaps this is not news to you, but my dad's infidelity has been an ongoing issue. It wasn't my first heartbreak. At that time, my heart was shattered twice. When I learned about my dad's cheating scandal with his secretary as his mistress, I had already developed feelings for someone else. Unfortunately, he chose to reunite with his first love, leaving me hanging and heartbroken. The guy who set the bar so high ended up hurting me even more. It felt like salt on my existing wounds. The person I thought would help heal my wounds only gave me deeper pain," I revealed, tears streaming down my face.
Without realizing it, I had already begun crying, and Riyu gently wiped away my tears with his handkerchief. He approached me and embraced me, his warm body providing comfort.
"That guy is a complete jerk. I wish I could punch him!" he exclaimed, ready to defend me.
"I'm okay... at least until he recently reappeared. We saw each other yesterday," I disclosed.
Riyu looked at me with sadness evident in his eyes. Based on what I had just shared, I could tell he was deep in thought.
"Do you mean to say that you're pursuing a relationship with me because of that?" he asked, sounding slightly deflated by my revelation.
"Hey, don't get me wrong. I have a lot to explain, even though I understand your concerns. Whatever choice you make, whether you want to end this conversation or not, it's okay with me. I only ask for a little bit of your time," I reassured him.
He nodded in understanding.
"Yesterday, I realized that the feelings I had for him were still lingering, which is something I never wanted to happen. I wanted to move on completely. So I delved deeper into the root cause of this situation," I explained.
"And?" he asked eagerly, awaiting my revelation.
“That's when I realized that maybe I never truly allowed myself to love someone else. So I thought, why not give other guys a chance? Now, you might think I'm using you as a distraction or a rebound, but I want you to know that's not my intention. Among all the men who have courted me, you seem to be the most genuine and decent. If you don't want to proceed, I would completely understand. I won't force anything," I told him sincerely.
I wanted to ensure that he didn't think I was using him as a mere rebound. I genuinely wanted to give him a chance.
He nodded, grasping the situation. "I understand, and I will support you because now you're giving me a chance, right?" he clarified, as if resolving any doubts.
I nodded in agreement. "Yes, I'm giving you a chance, and in the process, I'm giving myself a chance as well. Why not? I deserve to be happy too."
It was still early in the evening, and he mentioned that he had ample time since he had finished most of his workload. So we decided to go somewhere. I must admit, I'm not usually the type to go out frequently. Perhaps it's my brother and Alice who often venture out together. As for me, my life in Azura has mostly revolved around studying and passing time at home.
That's why, even though I have been in Azura for some time, I am continually amazed by the places Riyu introduces me to.
"That was incredible," I exclaimed. It was genuinely an exhilarating experience!
Azura is stunningly beautiful and remarkably clean. While it does have its downsides, overall, Azura is a dream destination, particularly for tourists. We decided to have lunch at a renowned restaurant known for its delectable beef steak, and I happily accompanied him.
And he wasn't mistaken! The taste of the juicy meat was simply divine! The flavors were out of this world. I even made a mental note to bring my friends here. Apart from the delightful ambiance, friendly staff, and breathtaking views, the place was immaculate! It's a shame I hadn't discovered such a beautiful place sooner.
"Thank you for bringing me here. Without you, I wouldn't have experienced a place like this," I expressed my gratitude.
"No problem at all. It's wonderful to see you happy. Don't let that guy bring you down. He's probably moved on, and so should you," he advised me. And honestly, with his comforting words, I truly felt better. He spoke without a trace of jest.
Our date continued, and Riyu showed me more picturesque locations. I found myself appreciating the beauty of winter despite my previous melancholic associations. Winter used to symbolize sadness for me. Even a white Christmas felt different ever since my dad shattered everything.
Memories of my dad would resurface during this time. He used to treat us to trips to Europe or Japan as Christmas approached, and I would be brimming with excitement as December arrived.
But those happy memories are now just fragments of the past. There's no point in dwelling on them.
By the time he dropped me off at my condominium, it was already late. We had enjoyed a cup of coffee at a popular café. I had a fantastic time with him, and I didn't regret spending that evening together.
Riyu is a simple yet classic gentleman, and that's what I appreciate about him.
"I had an amazing time tonight, and I hope you felt the same way," I expressed my sentiments.
He nodded, sporting a wide smile. "Absolutely, I'm incredibly happy, and I hope this won't be our last outing. I will be there for you until your heart feels better. Your past with him doesn't dictate your future."
"I regret not inviting you to these kinds of activities earlier. You're like an angel in my life, bringing wisdom," I praised him, causing his face to turn even redder.
"You're making me blush," he said, his voice almost trembling.
"Alright, I'll go now," I informed him as I entered the elevator.
My day had been fulfilling and joyful, but I knew work awaited me tomorrow, along with the unfortunate prospect of seeing Logan again. Where did my luck go? As I stepped out of the elevator, I never expected to find Logan standing in front of my condo unit, deep in thought and sipping on a glass of wine.
"What's wrong with this guy, anyway?"