A sense of powerlessness washed over me as I said, "I understand."
They breathed a sigh of relief, wanting to say something more, but I hung up the phone.
Shortly after, John arrived, travel-worn. Behind him followed Maria, her eyes red-rimmed.
"I'm sorry, sister, I shouldn't have been so selfish, leaving you sitting here alone for four hours."
John looked at her with the same heartache he had shown me. But now, he frowned at me.
"Alright, Olivia, I'm here. Don't scare her with that stern face. Have you finished eating? I'll take you home." He pushed my wheelchair forward.
At the car, he naturally opened the passenger door for Maria and fastened her seatbelt. After he settled her in, he turned around and saw I had already climbed into my seat.
"Could you help me put the wheelchair down?"
A hint of guilt flashed in his eyes, "Sorry, it's just a habit."
I shook my head. "Let's go."
On the way, Maria activated the car's smart system.
"Here we are! Where are you taking me today, John?" A dense, itchy sensation gnawed at my heart.
During my senior year of high school, because of the pressure of studies, he fell in love with riding motorcycles. The first thing he did after passing his exams was take me for a ride.
When I did poorly on an exam, we went for a ride; when I did well, we went for a ride again. We've practically explored every street and alley in the city.
He said he'd take me for a drive to farther places after he got his driver's license. I didn't get to keep his promise.
What I got was watching him be happy with someone else, like a homewrecker. Watching their knowing glances, I suddenly felt utterly pointless. I calmly looked at the unfamiliar John in the rearview mirror.
I slowly opened my mouth, "John, let's cancel the wedding."
The car brakes screeched. With a thud, John's wheels skidded and hit the curb.
"What happened?"
"I'm fine, I..." But before I could finish, I saw him lean over to look at Maria in the passenger seat.
"What happened? Let me see!"
"I bumped my head, it's okay, I'm alright."
"I'm sorry, Olivia, I willingly let John marry you, this is what I owe you. After you two get married, I'll keep my distance."
Her eyes were red, she looked pitiful.
John's eyes were brimming with worry. He turned and gave me a helpless look.