Chapter 0077
Serena’s POV
Bill looks at me like I’ve done something unforgivable. “So, is this a thing now? You and Calvin?”
I arch a brow. “Didn’t realize my dating life was still your business.”
His jaw flexes. “It’s not. Just seems fast, that’s all.”
I scoff, crossing my arms. “Fast? Bill, we’re divorced. You don’t get a say.”
He nods like he agrees. I see his shoulders tense and his fingers twitch as if he’s barely holding something back.
“I’m just looking out for you,” he says, voice too even.
I tilt my head, studying him. “No, you’re jealous. And you know how I can tell?” I step closer, lowering my voice.” Because you’re trying too damn hard not to be.”
“Maybe I am jealous and pissed my uncle’s stepping in,” he says low and firmly. “But I promised I wouldn’t give up, Serena. With our child on the way, I’m not letting anyone take my place.”
I go completely still, Bill’s words rattling around in my head. I don’t know what to say or feel. Anger? Confusion? Something else I don’t want to name?
My chest tightens as I think about the baby, about everything that’s already changing. Shit. I don’t need Bill to mess with my head.
Bill leans in and touches my arm. His hand is warm and steady, and he never takes his eyes off me. I feel a spark that I didn’t expect.
For a moment I’m frozen, torn between pulling away and leaning into this closeness. His gentle touch and steady gaze bring back an old longing mixed with a hint of hope.
Even though I know it’s still messy between us, I can’t help but be drawn to him.
Bill meets my gaze one last time. “Serena, I have to go now” he says quietly, “but remember – I’m here for you and our child. I won’t give up.‘
He turns toward the door, and as he steps away, my skin still tingles where his hand is. 1
I want him to stop, to turn around and do something more just a touch or a word that tells me he cares.
But I shake off my longing, reminding myself that Bill and are over. Still, a small part of me wonders if I’ve truly moved on or if I’m clinging to old memories.
I tell myself it’s best to let go, but a quiet voice inside can’t help questioning if I ever really did.
Later, Stevie and I make our way to the dining room with our Chinese takeout. The comforting aromas fill the air as we set the containers on the table.
“So, what’s really going on with you and Calvin?” Stevie asks softly, her eyes searching mine for answers.
I pick at my food, hesitating. “It’s complicated. There’s something between us, but I’m not sure I’m ready for anything serious.”
Stevie nods in understanding. “I get it. With everything on your plate right now, it’s hard to know.”
1/2
Chapter 0077
I sigh, the weight of my thoughts heavy. “I care about him a lot, but it never feels like the right time.”
After a beat, Stevie leans forward. “Listen, Calvin is perfect for you. He’s steady, caring, and he respects you. And compared to Bill…” Her voice trails off.
I frown. “I know what you mean. But lately, Bill seems to be listening more, trying to be… caring”
Stevie scoffs lightly. “That’s classic Bill. When he thinks you’re slipping away, he gets all sweet. It’s the chase for him. Once he feels secure, he’ll snap back to his old self.”
I wonder if Bill can really change, or if he’s just reacting because he feels he’s already lost me.
“You don’t really want to be stuck in that loop again, do you?” Stevie asks, breaking the silence.
Before I can respond, the words tumble out, “Bill said he still loves me.” The clatter of dishes halts our conversation. Stevie’s eyes go wide. “What? When did he say that?”
I remind her, “Remember when I was crying at the shop and he was there? That’s when he told me.” Stevie’s tone sharpens. “You waited weeks to tell me?”
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I look down, feeling the pressure. “I’m sorry. I just have so many things to process all at once. Now, with Calvin wanting to be my boyfriend, I’m stuck choosing between the two. It’s all just… too much.”
Stevie shakes her head, half–smiling. “Men… always turning everything into drama. Okay, let’s just focus on the fashion show instead. It’ll take your mind off all this.”
I nod, grateful for Stevie’s understanding and support.
As we dive into planning the fashion show, I let the boy drama fade away. This is real life, not high school. Tonight, I’m determined to turn all this chaos into something creative – a fresh start on my own terms.
But still, I can’t help feeling torn between Calvin’s calm and Bill’s stubborn fire.
Who the hell should I choose?
