Chapter 1990
Spencer's tone wavered with emotions as he continued, "When I realized she knew about my plans to
study abroad, I was shocked. I hadn't told anyone outside my family. It dawned on me that my father
must have met with her, probably to discourage her from pursuing a romantic relationship with me
because of our family backgrounds.
"I was kept at home until my departure, losing all contact with her. Abroad, I found myself isolated,
keeping a distant eye on our group chats. She soared during her university years, excelling in the
performing arts at Trinity University. Her talent was unmistakable, even mentioned in the campus
forums. With makeup on, I couldn't recognize her as the lead in King Lear. She had transformed,
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtleaving her high school self far behind.
"Rumors reached me about her being paraded by her father at banquets, seeking a marriage alliance
for financial gains. I heard her mother had an accident, and her family's company was in trouble. That
idiot, using a marriage alliance for money, trapping her. He had no idea where her true value lay. I
thought, if there must be a marriage alliance, why couldn't it be with me? I broke free from the people
my dad had set up around me and rushed back, but I was too late."
Spencer turned to Keegan, his eyes red with unshed tears. He said, "You're incredibly lucky, Keegan.
The woman I've loved for years became your wife so effortlessly. I came back, hoping she might still
have a place for me. But one look at her with you, I knew I stood no chance. Her gaze toward you was
filled with admiration, something I could never evoke. My dream of US running away together was just
that- a dream. For the longest time, I couldn't accept that she didn't feel the same for me. How did you
manage to win her heart?"
Keegan, gently taking the wine glass from Spencer's hand and replacing it with water, replied calmly,
"The only advantage I had was timing. I met her when I was in control of my own life."
Spencer paused, reflecting on Keegan's words. He managed a wry smile, "I guess that makes sense."
Stella sat quietly, her thoughts a whirl of past and present. She felt a pang of sympathy for Spencer,
realizing how his feelings had lingered through the years.
Understanding the depth of Spencer's unrequited love, Keegan contemplated, 'He had believed our
marriage was a casual affair, fueling his reluctance to let go. But his love was genuine, and his
acceptance, though painful, was sincere. His greatest misfortune was falling for her at the wrong time.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmIndeed, I am fortunate. But sometimes, luck is just another form of strength.'
Keegan prepared to call Spencer's father, but Spencer stopped him, "Don't be ridiculous. I don’t need
my dad to come pick me up.'
Keegan eyed Spencer's drunken state, "After drinking with US, I can't let you go alone. What if
something happens? I don't want Stella to feel guilty or worried about you."
Spencer leaned back, a mixture of resignation and respect in his voice," After all that's been said,
you're still concerned about getting me home safely. You always put personal safety above romantic
notions. I have to admire that. She really didn't choose wrong with you, Keegan."
Keegan responded with a hint of dry humor, "Don't make me sound too noble. I just don't want any
accidents on your way home to weigh on Stella's conscience. She doesn't need more reasons to think
about you."