“Should I list all the times you’ve ignored my messages? Or is not responding just something only you get to do?”

Scott’s face showed a moment of embarrassment before he became persistent again. “So, you’re sulking to get my attention?”

I answered calmly, trying to stay detached.

“You’re reading too much into it. I was just busy and didn’t see it.”

“Is this because of Hannah? I can explain.”

I didn’t get why he was pushing me to admit I was hurt when I was trying to move on.

It was frustrating.

“It’s not about that! You and she are close friends, and close friends share everything, right?”

Feeling overwhelmed by the emotional conversation, I decided to change the subject.

“If the gardenia is dead, just throw it away. It wasn’t that important to you anyway.”

Scott had once mentioned liking gardenias, so I bought several pots and took great care of them.

Each one withered as if foreshadowing the end of our relationship.

I only found out that Hannah was the one who truly loved gardenias. Scott’s interest was just a byproduct of that.

Scott’s lips tightened, a flash of guilt in his eyes.

“There’s my art exhibition this weekend. Would you like to come with me?”