“Look at this iris, it’s thriving because I’ve taken good care of it.”
That autumn, when the irises were in full bloom, the two of them met.
Because of the flowers. And also because of me.
After that, Hallie started ordering flowers from Harrison often. Roses, magnolias, lilacs.
Soon, our villa looked almost like a rooftop garden.
Their connection grew stronger and deeper.
Then one day, Hallie suddenly said she wanted to sponsor Harrison’s education.
“He’s just a young man, smart and hardworking. It would be a shame to waste his talent.”
Harrison nervously rubbed the rough calluses on his palms.
On his dark face, a worried yet eager smile appeared. “Byron, I’ll study hard.”
“My grades are good. My mom got into a car accident, so I had to quit school to take care of my family.”
“As long as you give me a chance, I won’t let you down!”
His young face already showed tiredness and lines beyond his years. When I looked into those honest eyes, I remembered something.
At eight years old, Hallie had sat on the stairs, lost and helpless.
My heart softened again.
For a long time, I treated Harrison like my own little brother. I bought him clothes and tutored him.
I taught him how to live and how to behave.
He always called me “brother,” saying I was the best person he’d ever met. If ever he had the chance, he would repay me.
And he really did.
He was accepted into the same school where Hallie and I worked.
On the night he got his acceptance letter, he climbed into Hallie’s bed.
That day, I had gone home early on purpose, wanting to make a special dinner to celebrate.
When I got home, what I saw was…
The two of them, messy and hugging. Their bodies were pressed together.
Right then, I completely lost control.
I threw the cake at them.
I broke every flower and plant in the house.
Hallie stood in front of Harrison, coldly watching me. “Byron, if you’re done, close the door.”
“You’re shameless, but Harrison isn’t.”
Between me and Harrison, she chose him without any hesitation.
I couldn’t take it anymore and forced Hallie to give me an answer.
She frowned at me. “Byron, you’re still my husband. As long as you don’t act out, Harrison will never replace you.”
Harrison then dropped to his knees in front of me with a thud.
“Byron, I know I’ve done wrong, but Hallie and I truly love each other.”
“We’re soulmates, the two people who understand each other the most in this world.”