My Boyfriend Ran Away with His Childhood Sweetheart

When I got home, I found Michael back after more than a week. He was sitting quietly on the living room couch, focused on his phone. As I walked in, he glanced up at me, seemingly expecting me to break down, apologize, and ask for his forgiveness and love. But I said nothing, just put down my bag and went to freshen up.

After washing up, as I was about to enter the bedroom, Michael stood in the doorway and, for once, offered an explanation: "I've been away on a business trip for over a week."

"Oh," I replied.

He added, "I just got back today."

"Oh," I said again.

Then he asked, "How have you been these past few days? Busy?"

I thought Michael was expressing concern, and I was just about to respond when he carried on, "You're free tomorrow night, right?"

"Why do you ask?" I replied.

"Emmy's just moved into a new place," Michael explained. "And you know how it is—it's tradition to have a housewarming party to bring good luck. We'd love for you to join us."

So that was it. It was all about Emily again. I felt sickened by my momentary hope.

Since it was late, I didn't bother discussing it further with Michael. "Got it," I said curtly.

Satisfied with my response, he didn't say another word and went straight to the sofa bed to sleep.

The next day, at exactly 5:30 PM, Michael called to say he was downstairs at my workplace.

I left with a few coworkers, who teased me, "Wow, Juliana, you're really living the life. A boyfriend who's already driving an Audi at his age is quite something."

Just as I felt a little softening towards Michael, he honked the horn impatiently and remarked, "Juliana, hurry up. Don't dawdle."

My coworkers were taken aback by Michael's attitude. Without saying more, I quickly got into the car.

Once inside, Michael asked, "Why are you so quiet today?"

I was struck by the irony and almost laughed.

Previously, whenever I was in his car, I'd chatter endlessly. I believed that a desire to share everything was the essence of true romance, hoping he'd share more of his life with me too. But back then, he'd always furrow his brows and say, "Juliana, could you be quiet for a moment? I've had a long day at work, and you're making me stressed."

So I would sullenly fall silent.

Who would have guessed that he'd now think I was too quiet?

Just as I was contemplating how to start a conversation, his phone rang. The car's display lit up with "Emmy."

Without a moment's hesitation, Michael answered. Emily's sweet voice came through, "Mikey, when are you getting here? I'm a bit scared without you."

Michael responded indulgently, "Don't worry, Emmy. I'll be there soon."

I simply rolled my eyes.

When we arrived at Emily's place, Michael knocked on the door. As soon as it opened, Emily threw herself into his arms, exclaiming, "Mikey, your friends are so teasing, they keep making fun of us, and I…"

She trailed off as she noticed me standing behind Michael.

Emily clearly wasn't expecting me. She blurted out, "Juliana, you're here too?"

Seeing her unexpected reaction, I felt delighted.

"Yes," I replied. "Michael insisted I come along. Otherwise, I wouldn't have seen you two hugging like that."

"I…" Emily blushed, slightly embarrassed. "I've hugged Mikey often since we were kids. It's totally normal for a brother and sister, right? Juliana, don't misunderstand."

With great poise, I said, "No misunderstanding at all. You two go ahead. As Michael's girlfriend, why would I mind something like this?"

Emily fidgeted, while Michael visibly expressed his displeasure at my unusual calmness.

After all, we'd been arguing for almost a year. This sudden change in behavior was certainly unexpected for him.

Seeing them both at a loss for words, I added, "Feel free to hug a bit longer—or even kiss if you like. After all, it's all just sibling affection, right?"