I Don't Love Her Anymore, She Regrets It

The next morning, I made myself some plain congee for breakfast and headed to work.

While waiting for the bus at the entrance of my apartment complex, Vivian drove by and rolled down her window. “I saw there’s food in the fridge. Why didn’t you make me a lunchbox?”

I used to prepare her lunch every day at the office, making each meal with care and her favorite ingredients.

She loved spicy food, so even though it made my stomach hurt, I always added chili to everything.

She’s allergic to seafood, and even though I grew up by the sea and love seafood, I haven’t had it in seven years just to avoid upsetting her.

Despite all my efforts to please her, she only seemed to grow more indifferent and open about her relationship with Howard.

I smiled faintly. “Making lunchboxes is too much trouble. I’d have to get up at five in the morning, and it really cuts into my sleep. I’m not doing it anymore. You said the cafeteria food at your company is better than mine. Anyway, so just eat there.”

Vivian stared at me, clearly taken aback, then said quickly, “You have to believe me, there’s nothing between Howard and me. He had a depressive episode yesterday… I really couldn’t get away… His family was there too, so don’t overthink it.”

I looked at her with a smile in my eyes.

If his family was there, why were you still hanging around?

Not wanting to get into an argument, I said calmly, “I get it. Howard’s your old friend, and he’s dealing with depression. It makes sense you’d help him out.”

She fell silent for a moment before saying with a hint of sadness, “You’re still upset with me.”

I shook my head. “No, I’m not. You’re making a big deal out of nothing. Anyway, the bus is here, and I have to go to work. See you.”

I gave her a polite wave and walked away, treating her like any casual acquaintance.