- 6.
Ethan closed the distance between us, his steps measured and deliberate. He was still the boy I remembered, but the boyish softness had been replaced by a sharp, controlled maturity.
“Deleted your social media, disconnected your phone. Even your professors couldn’t find you. You’re quite the magician, Maya.” Slowly, I raised my head, meeting his gaze. “You must have… used your connections, right? My family went bankrupt. My dad’s caught in legal battles, still hasn’t paid off all the debt…” “Why didn’t you tell me back then?” I was speechless. “Too proud, Miss Evans?” “No-” Before I could finish, Ashley appeared. “Oh my god, Maya! It really is you!” She was even more stunning than in college, every hair perfectly in place. “Long time no see! Everyone’s been looking for you. Why haven’t we heard from you in four years?” “I was down South.” “No wonder,” Ashley said, eyeing my clothes with surprise. “Maya, isn’t that the down jacket you bought junior year?
く
It’s practically falling apart. Why are you still
wearing it?” I used to throw out clothes after a
single season. Her question was a deliberate
jab. But I was numb. “It’s still fine. Still
wearable.” Ashley nodded knowingly. “Are you
having a hard time? You should’ve said
something. Old friends can help each other
out.” She pulled out a card. “Take this. You
don’t have to pay me back.” “Thanks, but I don’t
need it.” I looked at her, then at Ethan, and
smiled faintly. “I’m getting married soon. Be
sure to come.” The words hung in the air,
leaving Ethan visibly shaken.
