The round glass table lacked a vintage ceramic vase or fresh flowers. The refrigerator wasn't stocked with delicious food. The walls bore no decorations, and the curtains weren't in Tessa's preferred color.
Zachary closed his eyes, but the image of Tessa entwined with Stephen surfaced in his mind again. At this very moment, could they be engaged in something intimate?
The pain in his heart was sharp and unmistakable.
Before coming here, he had considered many possibilities, but not once had he imagined that Tessa might already be with someone else.
They said heartbreak happened twice in a relationship. The first time was at the moment of the breakup. The second time was when you saw her with someone new. It turned out to be true.
…
The next day, the autumn air was crisp, and the sky was bright and clear.
Having made plans to go out with Stephen, Tessa slept in until she woke naturally. After a simple breakfast, she began to dress and apply makeup.
She chose a black long-sleeved, velvet vintage dress, her wavy curls cascading over her shoulders. Her bright red lipstick perfectly complemented the black dress.
With her striking beauty, sharp features, high nose bridge, thick brows, and almond-shaped eyes, the makeup added an air of bold elegance, making her look stunning and captivating.
Stephen's black Cullinan was parked downstairs. When Tessa came down, she saw him leaning against the car, talking on the phone.
Noticing her arrival, Stephen's eyes lit up briefly before he ended the call with a few words. He looked up and smiled faintly.
"This outfit and makeup suit you very well today."
Tessa smiled and opened the passenger door to get in.
"Where are we going?" she asked as she fastened her seatbelt.
"You'll see soon enough," he replied.
Stephen didn't bring a chauffeur today and was driving himself.
The Cullinan moved through the bustling city, heading toward the countryside. The tall buildings gradually disappeared until none were visible anymore.
Rivertown's flat terrain gave way to beautiful rural scenery. Under the clear blue sky stretched endless golden wheat fields, dotted with farmers harvesting their crops.
Occasionally, they passed small farmhouses with bare fruit trees in the yards, their branches stripped of leaves and stark against the landscape.
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