After My Death, My Ex-boyfriend Went Mad with Regret

(Peyton's POV)

As Mason took long strides,the station seemed to fade into the distance.As he left the building,his face grew darker than when he first entered.

I hovered nearby,observing him closely.He walked hastily to his car but didn't get in;instead,he brought out a cigarette,lighting it and taking a deep puff out of it.

The fiery ember illuminated his chiseled,troubled face.He looked like his was lost in thoughts.I wondered what he was thinking about.

"No way...there's no way…"he muttered to himself,a flicker of panic appeared laced in his voice,"She wouldn't actually be in trouble…I mean,Peyton is good at manipulating others to do her bidding"

He took several deep puffs but it didn't calm his frustration and it showed in the way he grunted.

His slender fingers tappedimpatiently on the car door,as if weighed down by worry.

I watch,unmoved.

Who is this show for?The police or himself?

If he truly cared,he'd have told the police about Harper Reese's apartment.

Is he worried about himself?

His phone rings,breaking his thoughts.

He answers,seeing Harper Reese's name on the screen;his tense expression softens.

"Harper."

"Mason,I heard that Peyton is missing,is that true?"Harper's voice trembled

"Don't speculate;it's unrelated to you,"Mason Reed soothes,"Police found no concrete evidence;don't overthink,rest well."

"But...I'm worried about Peyton and you..."Harper Reese's voice cracks.

"I'll be right there;wait for me."

Mason Reed hangs up and drives away.

I watch,thinking I've once again misjudged him.

Of course,Mason Reed wouldn't worry about me.

He probably wishes I'd disappear forever.

My life is less valuable to him than a strand of Harper Reese's hair.

I shut my eyes,hoping to catch a break from him when I open them,but I found myself at Harper's temporary apartment.Mason kneels before her,embracing her warmly.

"Don't fear;I'm here,it's okay."

Harper Reese nestles into his arms,tearfully.

I look away.

Though I've lost expectations,watching them intimately is cruel.

Mason Reed gently pats Harper Reese's back.

Harper Reese gazes up at him adoringly.

"Mason,hold me tight?"

Mason Reed hesitates before embracing her.

Just as their lips meet,Mason Reed's face contorts;he shudders violently.

"Aren't you...?"Harper Reese asks,alarmed.

Mason Reed pushes her away,clutching his chest.

His face pale,sweating,breathing rapidly.

"What's wrong?"Harper Reese asks,concerned.

Mason Reed doesn't respond,his eyes shut,struggling to breathe.

Has he finally realized his cruelty's consequences?