A year ago, my professor had invited me to join this program. But back then, I had just accepted Vincent’s proposal and could not bear to leave. Now, there was nothing I cared about.
Relieved, my professor said, “I will arrange it for you on my side. But it is urgent, so they will come to pick you up in a week. Use this time to settle your affairs. Don’t leave anything unresolved.”
As I ended the call, Zoe’s voice floated over to me. “Vincent, you’re the best! I really love this dress so much!”
The dress she wore was the one I had dreamed of wearing—custom-made by a top designer, a one-of-a-kind piece that took months to create. It was worth ten million dollars, the only one and I haven’t even worn it myself yet.
“It’s just a dress,” Vincent said gently, stroking her hair. “As long as you are happy.”
“But what if my sister-in-law sees? Won’t she be upset?”
Noticing me standing at the entrance, his face flashed with panic for a brief moment before quickly recovering. He released Zoe’s arm and said in a low voice, “Be a good girl. Go take it off and let her try it on.”
Zoe pouted, reluctant to part with the gown. “Just a little longer, please? She can wear it whenever she wants. I’ll never get the chance again.”
“Don’t be silly,” he replied, pinching her cheek with a laugh. “One day, you will find a boyfriend and have your own wedding dress to wear.”
“But who could ever compare to you, Vincent?” she said coyly.
They joked and flirted openly, without a care for my presence.
Afraid I would confront Zoe, Vincent impatiently turned to me, offering a flimsy explanation, “She’s just playing a wedding game, okay? Don’t get upset over this, okay?”
If this had been the past, I would have exploded—fighting, yelling, maybe even tearing the gown apart to ensure no one else could have it. But with my thought of leaving him only a week away, what was the point? Sometimes, silence was the loudest response.
For the first time, I was not angry. I was free.
I lightly laughed and said to Vincent. “It’s just a wedding dress. If she likes it, then let her have it.” Then I left them as I said, “I’ve got work at the lab. I’ll head out now.”
Vincent froze, watching me leave without another word.
***
Later that evening, Vincent came to pick me up for the first time in months. He brought a small mango cake with him, holding it out like a peace offering.
But, the problem? I’m allergic to mango.