After the Misery, I Found My Smile

I pushed Frank out of my mind, deliberately avoiding any news about him.

I learned to enjoy lavish meals alone, watch movies, and savor life.

Then, I discovered that without him, I could still live well. He wasn't indispensable.

Previously, my life revolved around work and Frank.

Now that he was gone, the other half of my energy went into self-improvement.

A female colleague, Lila, noticed my changes and teased, "You're preparing for marriage and pregnancy, aren't you?"

I was taken aback and awkwardly smiled, slowly saying, "I don't have any plans to get married for now."

This time, it was her turn to be stunned. "Men are like that. They might be fickle before marriage, but maybe they'll change after getting married."

I stopped my work and sighed lightly, "I don't think marriage can restrain a man who's prone to wavering. Otherwise, why would so many people cheat?"

I felt it was better to cut my losses in time than to end up in a messy marriage.

Moreover, I wasn't dependent on him.

"That makes sense. So you're aiming for a promotion. I heard our department manager is being transferred to a branch, and with your qualifications, becoming the manager is definitely within reach."

Her words ignited my enthusiasm.

I was indeed aiming for a promotion.

I had already missed an opportunity once because I was too absorbed in the love Frank offered, but this time, I had to seize it.

After chatting with her for a few moments, my attention quickly returned to my work.

However, I got so caught up that I lost track of time.

By the time I realized it, the sky outside was already dark, and I was the only one left in the vast office.

I slowly stood up, stretching my stiff body.

After feeling sufficiently relaxed, I tidied up my desk and left.

Just as I reached the gate, I saw a familiar figure.

Frank stood tall, holding some food boxes.

As I walked out, he happened to glance at his watch, looking impatient.

But upon seeing me, his impatience instantly disappeared.

"Eve, you're finally off work."

He strode towards me. I glanced at him indifferently and walked in the other direction.

Frank quickly caught up, grabbing my wrist, his eyes filled with pleading as he spoke cautiously. "Eve, you must be exhausted after working so late. I made this myself, all your favorites. Would you like to try some?"

Everything he did now was what I used to do to appease him after arguments.

He was using my methods on me.

I thought, "See, if he's willing to learn, he can."

But after years of dating, he only understood this after we broke up.

"Frank, this is meaningless."

I looked at him indifferently, my eyes like calm seas without a breeze.

"Eve, I never wanted to break up. We've been together for so long, can't you just not give up so easily? And we're engaged, my mom even gave you such expensive wedding gifts..."

Before he could finish, he realized he had said the wrong thing and immediately looked at me cautiously, adding, "I don't mean for you to return it..."

Seeing him desperately trying to explain, I remembered. After setting the wedding date, his mom gave me an expensive diamond necklace and bracelet.

But I had never worn them, so I forgot about it.

I interrupted him, "I understand. I'll bring them back tomorrow. Not a single diamond will miss."