Losing My Childhood Crush's Love

I knew I was acting impulsively, but I just couldn’t hold it in.

The child in the painting was a close friend I made while I was ill.

She had leukemia, and the treatment made her lose all her hair. Her body was even frailer than most children her age.

She never cried or complained during her treatment; every day, she fought so hard to live. But because of too many disruptions from her family, her treatment failed.

She was lost forever that summer.

I had promised her I would paint an oil portrait of her. When I finally finished it and came back to show her, she had already passed away.

Emily scoffed, looking at me with contempt.

“Miss Wilson, you can’t just say whatever you want without proof. Who’s going to believe this painting is yours? I know you and Francis don’t get along, but don’t drag me into it.”

The teachers clearly believed Emily, thinking I was causing trouble for no reason. Their looks toward me grew more disapproving.

At that moment, Francis walked into the office.

Seeing the scene, he raised an eyebrow and asked what was going on.

“Your dear friend here seems to have a problem with me, Francis. If you like me, maybe sort out your female entourage before trying to pursue me!”

Francis glanced at the painting, then at me, clearly imagining something in his mind. He grabbed my wrist and spoke with a hint of apology in his voice.

“Emily, keep talking to the teachers. I’ll take care of this.”

Without another word, he dragged me outside.

His grip was so tight that it hurt, and I tried to break free but couldn’t.

I clenched my teeth, forcing back tears.

Quickly, I dialed my phone, and before he could start yelling, I shouted into the receiver, “Kaden, get to campus right now and find me in the office. If you don’t, the painting of your sister will be stolen by the time you get here.”