After signing, Jackson said he wanted to make it up to me and take me to Valoria to relax. But as soon as we reached the airport, his phone rang; it was Noelle.
On the other end, she was crying uncontrollably, saying she was scared of being alone in the hospital.
Jackson hung up, avoiding my gaze. “Elizabeth, there’s an urgent project at the institute. I have to go back. Go ahead, I’ll meet you at the airport when I’m done.”
I waited all day, but Jackson never came. Noelle posted an update on her Instagram story. In the photo, her hand held a man’s and his wrist had the red string I had given him.
The caption said: [My beloved accepted my confession; eight years of love finally led to marriage.]
I liked the post. Jackson called, but I didn’t answer. It grew dark and a light rain started. I suddenly felt tired and wanted to return home. My mother opened the door, said nothing and just gave me a bowl of hot soup.
As I was nearly finished with the soup, she spoke, “Once a man’s heart changes, you can’t hold onto him.”
I paused, still holding the bowl.
“Like your father, he fell for Louise. No matter what I said or did, he left me for another woman without hesitation.”