Drowning While He Fed Her Strawberries - Chapter 5: Chapter 5

After finally selling most of my inventory, I consolidated all the money onto a single bank card.
I'd planned to give it to Ethan today, but then Sophie messaged me: "Emma, we're having a get-together with some colleagues! You should come!" I didn't refuse—it was the perfect chance to hand everything over.
The moment Ethan saw me, his face went dark. He pulled me aside, voice low and tense. "This is Sophie's event. Don't make a scene."
The curious glances around us quickly turned judgmental. Whispers spread like wildfire.
"Is she an ex? Did she crash this thing on purpose?"
"Probably. Guys like Ethan always have clingy exes. Some girls just can't move on."
Sophie's eyes welled up as she jumped in, waving her hands frantically. "No, no! Ethan, I invited her! Emma's helped me so much—I'm really grateful!"
His expression softened at her explanation. At least I didn't have to defend myself.
I handed Sophie the card. "Since I didn't bring a gift, take this instead. Don't think it's too little." Then, glancing around, I added, "I've got a flight to catch, so I'll head out. Enjoy!"
I knew my presence was killing the vibe.
Ethan immediately insisted on driving me. I politely declined. "Stay with Sophie. It's just a work trip—no big deal."
He frowned, clearly annoyed by my distance.
Sophie gasped. "You're leaving for the airport? I had no idea!" She turned to Ethan. "You guys go ahead—I'll see Emma off!"
Before I could protest, Ethan doubled down. With a sigh, I canceled my ride.
In the car, Sophie chattered away while Ethan humored her with soft laughs. They looked like a couple—me, the awkward third wheel.
My gaze landed on the rearview mirror charm. The plain travel talisman I'd given him had been replaced with a cutesy Garfield.
Sophie beamed. "Adorable, right? Ethan's car was so boring before. I spruced it up!" Then, with fake sympathy: "Too bad you're stuck back here—the front seat's even cuter."
I didn't need her to point it out. I'd begged him for years to let me personalize his car. His response?
"Men don't drive pink, fluffy cars. And stop acting like you need a 'spot' in here—you never even ride with me."
I forced a smile. "It suits you. Girls should keep things pretty."
Ethan's grip on the wheel tightened, his knuckles white. "You're not... mad?" He sounded almost hopeful.
"Why would I be? You two are clearly close."
If anything, that made him angrier.
His distraction cost him. Swerving to avoid a bike, he slammed into the guardrail.
My head hit the seat—ears ringing, vision blurry. Sophie's shrill cries pierced through the haze.
Ethan snapped into action—for her.
"Are you hurt? Can you move?" When she just trembled, he flagged down a cab, scooped her up, and left me there without a second glance.
I staggered out, watching their taxi disappear.
Enough was enough.
I called my own ride and raced to the airport, barely making my flight when Ethan finally called.
"Where are you? Still in the car? I'm coming back—don't be scared," he rushed out, guilt heavy in his voice. "I panicked. I... I forgot you were even there."
A bitter laugh threatened to escape. "Don't bother, Ethan. It's not worth your concern." My voice steadied. "Just forget me. Replace me with Sophie—clearly, she's already taken my spot."
He sucked in a sharp breath. "What are you saying?"
Staring out at the runway, I whispered, "We're done. I'm tired."
"Tell me where you are!" Panic edged his words now. "It's not about Sophie—she's just a friend! Skip this 'business trip.' I'll send someone else—we'll fix this!"
Business trip? If he'd paid any real attention, he'd know there was no work trip scheduled.
The boarding announcement cut through his pleas. Without hesitation, I hung up—then blocked him everywhere.
For the first time in months, I breathed easier.