Chapter 0029
Chapter 0029
Bill’s POV
I had hoped Doris would realize I wasn’t interested in her that way, but she kept inviting me to dinner.
Every time, I found myself scrambling for a new excuse to say no. It felt awkward dodging her invites without hurting her feelings.
Honestly, I’ve been avoiding conversations with Doris. After I saw her treat the janitor horribly, I started questioning everything about her.
That moment made me see Doris in a totally different light. Now, whenever she’s nice, I can’t help but wonder if it’s just for show.
One day, I decided to leave the office and go for a quick drive to clear my head.
Driving down Melrose Avenue, I see the shops Serena always talked about. She wanted us to explore them together, but I always said I was too busy. Truth is, I just didn’t want to go shopping because I thought it was just a waste of my time.
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Now, seeing these places without her, I feel a hint of regret
I have no real reason to be here, but I decided to pick up something nice for Serena anyway. It’ll be a peace offering, something to give her when she’s ready to meet up again.
I wander through the bustling streets, past windows displaying everything from vintage clothes to modern art pieces. The colorful murals and the eclectic mix of people add to the vibrant atmosphere of Melrose Avenue.
As I walk, I mull over what Serena might like, remembering how she never really asked for material things when we were married. It dawns on me then–maybe her invitations to shop weren’t about the items we’d buy. Perhaps she was just seeking quality time together, moments we could have shared, walking side by side just like this.
1 see people enjoying themselves – couples holding hands, friends laughing, and families eating ice cream together. They all seem so happy and connected. Watching them, I suddenly feel lonely and out of place, like I’m the only one here who doesn’t have someone to share this moment with
Turning into a Melrose street lined with charming small boutiques, I search for the perfect gift for Serena. Each shop offers something unique, from handcrafted jewelry to bespoke clothing and quirky home decor, reflecting the passion and individuality of their owners.
It’s exactly the kind of place where I can find a gift that resonates with Serena’s appreciation for the meaningful and the well–made. She’s always valued the story behind an item, the personal touch that makes it special.
I just have a strange feeling that I’ll find what I’m looking for here.
As I scan the shops, my eyes land on Serena, who’s laughing with Calvin. My heart sinks. What the hell is Calvin doing with my ex–wife? 1
I always figured my uncle just felt sorry for Serena, but now it’s obvious he has feelings for her. You can tell by the way his eyes light up when they’re talking to each other.
Then, Calvin turns fully to face Serena, placing his hands or her shoulders and locking eyes with her. It looks like he’s about to kiss her. My fists tighten even more. I can’t stand to watch any longer.
But just as I’m about to confront them, Serena nods at something Calvin says and steps into the shop in front of her, leaving him outside. I’m confused. If they’re together, why isn’t Calvin following her into the shop?
Calvin pulls out his phone and takes a call, his attention momentarily diverted. After he finishes, I seize the
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Chapter 0020
opportunity to approach him, ready to give him a piece of my mind.
As he pockets his phone, he looks up, surprised to see me. Bill? What are you doing here?”
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“Can we talk?” I say, my voice firm. I skip right past his question.
“Yeah, sure. Is everything alright?” Calvin asks, his brow furrowing with concern.
I take a deep breath, trying to sound steady. “What’s goingen between you and Serena?” I ask, cutting straight to the heart of the matter. My attempt to sound calm is betrayed by a slight tremble in my words.
Calvin’s expression softens, and he sighs. “I can see why you’re upset. But you’ve got it all wrong,” he begins. Serena and 1… we’re not what you think. I’m just helping her out.”
As I listen to Calvin talk about Serena, something doesn’t feel right. His eyes don’t lock onto mine like they usually do. They quickly glance away before returning, and catch this little twitch at the corner of his mouth. Something’s up.
I curse myself for giving Calvin the benefit of the doubt just because he’s family. He just admitted to helping Serena out. He’s probably been giving her money or something. No wonder Serena seems more busy these days because she’s with Calvin. It all makes sense now.
“So, you’re the one giving her money?” I say sharply. “Are you her sugar daddy or something?”
Calvin’s jaw tightens, but he stays cool. “Look, I never gave her any money,” he says flatly. “She wants to stand on her own. Maybe you should respect that.”
I feel my fists clenching at Calvin’s words. This is between me and Serena. Calvin’s overstepping his bounds. If he wasn’t my uncle, I might’ve punched him by now.
“Stop with the BS, Calvin,” I snap. “Just give it to me straight. Do you have feelings for Serena or not?”
I close the distance between Calvin and me, locking eyes with him. Despite his calm demeanor, he doesn’t flinch or back away. Both of us refuse to back down
“Let’s not make a scene here, Bill,” Calvin says calmly.
“Just answer the damn question,” I retort.
Before Calvin can respond, Serena rushes over to us. “Bill! Get away from him,” she demands urgently.
Serena steps firmly between Calvin and me, creating more space between us.
“Why are you with my uncle, Serena?” I ask, more annoyed than anything. “You’re crossing a line. We just got divorced.”
Serena turns to me, her eyes fierce with anger, a side of her I’ve never seen. “And why do you even care?” she snaps, her voice sharp. “It’s my life. I can be with whoever I want. You don’t get to tell me what to do.” 2
Hearing her say that feels like a dagger to my heart. It’s like she’s slipping further and further away from me, and there’s nothing I can do to stop it.
Chapter 11000
