Chapter 5

The next morning.

When I got up, the house was already empty.

On the dining table, Derek had specifically left macarons.

Next to them was a note he'd left.

[I'm taking Moira back to her apartment first.]

[Wait for me to come back.]

I picked up my suitcase.

Threw the macarons directly into the trash.

Along with the bracelet I'd worn for two years.

This was the only gift Derek had ever given me.

Even though it was just something someone else had casually given to Derek.

I once treasured it like a precious gem.

But now, these things.

Had no value worth cherishing for me.

When I got home, Mom joyfully took the suitcase from my hands.

"We were just discussing booking the wedding venue with Leo."

I looked at the familiar home.

My nose felt sour.

"Is it booked?"

"All set. This afternoon I'll go with you to order your wedding dress. It's so wonderful, you're finally getting married."

As she spoke, Mom's eyes reddened too.

I was the only child in the family.

I'd been showered with love and affection since childhood.

Before meeting Derek, my entire life hadn't encountered a single setback.

Now, for a man like this, I'd let myself become wounded all over.

My parents must hurt even more than I did.

I raised my hand to wipe away her tears.

"Why are you crying? I'm not getting married today."

The bridal shop wasn't far from our house.

Just a ten-minute walk.

As we approached, Mom remembered we hadn't bought invitations yet.

I told her to go buy them first and meet me at the bridal shop.

But before I even entered, I saw a familiar figure.

Moira, wearing a pure white wedding dress, was blissfully leaning against Derek.

The shop assistants were gushing about what a perfect match they made.

Through the mirror, Derek immediately spotted me standing at the entrance.

"Clara, why did you follow us here?"

"Don't misunderstand. I'm taking wedding photos with Moira just to make up for a regret."

I felt nothing inside.

I walked straight into the shop.

Moira saw me and looked livid.

"That's right, Derek just wants to make up for his regret with Vivian."

"It's just wedding photos. I don't even mind being a substitute. Surely you don't mind either?"

Several shop assistants gathered around, clearly enjoying the drama.

I said expressionlessly.

"Of course. Please continue."

I didn't look at them anymore, seriously selecting styles I liked.

But Derek froze.

Looking at my back, he suddenly felt panicked.

"Clara, why would you suddenly come here?"