As the love song wrapped up, someone ushered Allison over to Watson. Joshua stood off to the side, his expression as cold as the winter night, watching the whole scene unfold like a scene from a TV drama.
Watson, holding a bouquet of roses, extended them towards Allison, his voice as gentle as the softest summer breeze. "Allison, I've got feelings for you. Would you be interested in going out with me?"
A chorus of playful teasing ensued from the crowd, but soon enough, an expectant hush settled over everyone.
The chilly winter air was laced with tiny snowflakes, gracefully twirling down, setting a picture-perfect stage for Watson's confession. It was as if even the universe was in on this romantic moment.
Watson, standing tall and handsome in the midst of everyone, looked every bit the ideal suitor. Not only was he strikingly good-looking, but he also had brains and came from a well-to-do family, being the sole heir to Oak Lake's prestigious Gregson family. A match made in heaven, it seemed.
The answer seemed like a no-brainer.
Joshua was so wound up he forgot to breathe, his fingers curling tighter, his heart pounding in his chest.
But then, Allison’s response caught everyone off guard.
"I'm sorry, I can't say yes."
Watson's smile wavered.
The breeze tousled his dark hair, and the dim lights couldn't quite mask the disappointment etched on his face.
"Can I ask why?" His voice trembled slightly, his spirits visibly dampened.
Allison pressed her lips together, her expression steady, her tone cool and unwavering. "I'm just not into dating right now, and I honestly don't have the time for it. So, I’m sorry, but it's a no."
The crowd buzzed with murmurs again.
Joshua raised an eyebrow, a grin tugging at his lips.
He was quite pleased with her answer.
Without another word, Allison turned on her heel and walked away, leaving the roses untouched.
Joshua knew that back in college, Allison had plenty of admirers, and getting confessions like this was almost routine for her. Forgetting what her suitors looked like was no big deal.
But Joshua had a mental catalog of all the people who’d ever confessed to Allison, names and faces included.
So when he spotted Watson with Allison at a restaurant on Valentine's Day, he felt a genuine pang of jealousy.
Reflecting on it, Joshua’s gaze darkened. "I can't believe you’re still at it after all these years."
Watson chuckled, maintaining his suave demeanor. "I owe Mr. Fisher for the opportunity."
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