22#02
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Zack’s expression darkened slightly.
He then addressed the group, announcing, “Tonight’s on me. Everyone’s welcome to join.”
The watching students erupted in cheers.
I had been concealed behind some trees and only now emerged.
A keen–eyed individual spotted me and called out, “Look, it’s Lola! Lola’s here!”
“I knew it. Lola couldn’t possibly stay away.”
Zack’s gaze suddenly lifted. Upon seeing me, a faint smile barely touched his lips.
I paid no attention to the spectators eager for drama.
I approached Zack directly.
“Lola.”
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Zack pulled his new girlfriend closer.
He looked at me and stated coolly, “You can’t
manufacture emotions.”
“We go back over a decade. I’d rather not say anything too cruel and damage our long–standing friendship.”
“From this point on, I’ll continue to regard you as a
sister.”
“Should you need anything, feel free to reach out to
me.”
Then he lowered his voice, “With all these onlookers, don’t create a scene. Head home.”
“Zack,” I cut him off and took a slow step forward.
He frowned again, “Lola, behave yourself.”
I smiled and presented him with the bracelet I had just removed from my wrist.
“I came to return this to you.”
Upon seeing the bracelet, Zack’s expression instant. soured. “Lola, what are you up to now?”
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22#02
“Take the bracelet back. I won’t trouble you again after
this.”
Zack glared at me, his tone growing icier, “I don’t care about this trivial sum.”
“If you don’t want it, just discard it.”
As soon as he finished speaking, I turned and tossed the bracelet into a nearby garbage bin.
“You can dispose of all the other gifts I’ve given you in the past as well.”
With that, I departed without another glance at him.
By the time I reached the riverbank, it was pouring
rain.
Standing in the downpour with an umbrella, I reflected on the dreams I’d had over the past few nights.
3.3#03
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