The revelation of Amelia’s plans to move into her own apartment hit me like a bolt of lightning, jolting me out of my anger-induced haze. The weight of my assumptions and misplaced expectations began to settle heavily upon my shoulders. I had let my insecurities and resentment blind me to the truth, tarnishing what could have been a joyous celebration.
The realization dawned on me that Amelia had never intended to undermine our relationship or belittle my role in her life. Instead, she saw me as a friend and valued my support and kindness. The magnitude of my overreaction became painfully apparent, and I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of regret for my actions.
Amelia’s eyes searched mine, filled with concern and confusion. I took a moment to collect my thoughts, realizing that I needed to apologize for my behavior and the hurtful words I had hurled at her. It was time to rectify the situation and salvage what remained of the evening.
“I’m sorry, Amelia,” I finally managed to say, my voice laced with sincerity. “I overreacted and let my insecurities get the best of me. I should have trusted your intentions and celebrated with you and our friends.”
Amelia’s features softened, and she nodded understandingly. “I appreciate your apology, Liam. I understand how my invitation might have been misleading, and I’m sorry if I caused any confusion. You mean a lot to me, and I value our friendship. But I also want you to know that you’re more than just a friend to me.”
Her words sparked a flicker of hope within me, dispelling the shadows of doubt. There was still a chance for us, a chance to rebuild what had been damaged by my own reckless assumptions.
Taking a deep breath, I composed myself and extended my hand towards her. “Amelia, I’d love to celebrate with you and our friends. Let’s put this misunderstanding behind us and enjoy the evening together.”
A relieved smile tugged at the corners of Amelia’s lips, and she reached out, grasping my hand firmly. “I would like that, Liam. Let’s make tonight a memorable one.”
Together, we returned to the table, where my workers greeted me with relieved expressions. I offered them a sheepish smile, silently acknowledging my previous outburst. As the evening progressed, laughter and conversation filled the air, gradually dissipating the tension that had lingered moments ago.
I observed Amelia interacting effortlessly with everyone, her genuine warmth and kindness shining through. It was a reminder of why I had fallen for her in the first place. She possessed a captivating ability to bring people together, to create a sense of belonging and unity.
In the midst of the lively atmosphere, Amelia caught my eye and mouthed the words “thank you” across the table. It was a silent acknowledgment of our rekindled understanding, a promise to communicate more openly and honestly going forward.
After dinner, everyone left, and only Elliot, Amelia, and I remained. Elliot bid us farewell and hugged Amelia, which made me slightly jealous of their close bond. He glanced in my direction and attempted to hug me too, but I gave him a stern look, causing him to halt.
“Have a good one, guys,” Elliot chuckled before departing, leaving me puzzled about his laughter.
Amelia turned to face me, and I couldn’t help but be captivated by her beauty. I longed to embrace her tightly and never let go.
“Let’s head home,” I suggested, hoping she would agree.
“Okay, but I’ll be leaving tomorrow morning,” she informed me as she climbed into the car.
I promptly drove us home, and the car ride was filled with silence while Amelia gazed out of the window.
“Thank you, Liam,” she suddenly spoke, breaking the silence.
“Thank you for what?” I asked, keeping my eyes fixed on the road ahead.
“For everything. I can’t explain it, but I feel happy and at ease when I’m with you,” Amelia’s words caused me to hit the brakes.
I turned to look at her, finding her already gazing at me.
“What did you say?” I inquired, eager to hear her repeat her words.
“I feel strangely comfortable around you,” she admitted, maintaining eye contact as we engaged in a brief staring contest.
“I keep seeing images of you, and I don’t know why,” she added, tousling her hair slightly.
Oh, goodness! Does this mean she’s beginning to regain her memories? I felt overwhelmed with joy, unable to resist pulling her into a sudden embrace.
“Liam,” Amelia exhaled, hugging me back as we melted into each other’s arms.
“You’re starting to remember, Teddy,” I informed her, even though she didn’t understand what I meant.
“Did I lose my memories?” she questioned.
“Don’t dwell on it, Teddy. I’m just thrilled that you feel comfortable with me,” I confessed, releasing her from the hug and gazing at her with happiness in my eyes.
We continued to lock eyes, and for a moment, the world around us seemed to stand still. I gently caressed her silky hair, tucking it behind her ear before leaning closer to her as she closed her eyes softly.
Just as our lips were about to touch, my phone rang, abruptly interrupting the moment. Amelia hastily composed herself, adjusting her dress while her cheeks turned crimson.
“Ugh, I’m going to kill him,” I groaned, assuming it was Elliot calling.
“What the hell do you want, Elliot?” I barked into the phone.
“Hello, Mr. Scott. Miss me?” a deep, unfamiliar voice boomed from the speaker. I glanced at Amelia, who was already looking at me with concern.
“Who is that?” she asked.
“I have no idea,” the caller ID displayed “unknown.”
“Who is this?” I demanded, urging the person to reveal their identity.
“Your worst nightmare,” the person replied before abruptly hanging up.
What on earth!
“Who do you think it was?” Amelia inquired, noticing my bewildered state.
“Apparently, my worst nightmare,” I said, trying to maintain a serious expression but injecting a hint of humor.
“This is no time for jokes,” she playfully hit my chest.
“Relax, Teddy. It’s probably just some random person with too much time on their hands,” I tried to ease the tension in the air.
“Whatever, but please be careful,” she cautioned.
“Everything will be fine,” I assured her before driving away.
As I pulled away, I couldn’t help but notice a man standing on the opposite side of the road, staring at me intently.
What a strange individual!