No More Waiting, She Chooses Love novel Chapter 404

Because I failed to push him away.

He sure has a knack for making a drama out of nothing.

But let him live in his little fantasy world if it makes him happy. The deeper he digs into this, the harder he's going to fall in the end.

Maybe it's some cosmic payback, or perhaps it's my parents watching over me from the great beyond, feeling sorry for all I've given over the past decade. That's why Conrad can't seem to move on from what we had.

"Ivan will drop off a new phone for you. Go home and get some rest," Conrad said, finally letting go of me.

He walked away, his back straight, just like old times.

I used to watch him walk away and feel over the moon. Now, it just felt surreal, almost like he was a stranger.

As I was heading out, Ivan was already there, "Ms. Hudson."

I wasn't his assistant anymore, but he still called me that.

It was just a title, and I didn't bother to correct him.

"Mr. Wagner got you a new phone. It's the brand you like, latest model," Ivan said, handing me a bag.

I didn't take it, just said, "No need, just let me use your phone for a bit."

Ivan froze, "Ms. Hudson..."

He stopped mid-sentence, catching my eye, knowing full well when I say no, I mean it.

"So, can I use your phone or not?" I said, heading for the door.

"Yes, yes, of course," Ivan quickly handed his phone over.

I took it, gave Ivan a nod, and he smartly stepped back. I dialed Charlie's number.

—Sorry, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable.

The message made my grip on the phone tighten. Charlie's phone was off. Was he on a plane back home?

I tried my own number, and it rang, but no answer.

That didn't make sense.