Rita laughed, pushing him away. “No, it’s not the right time!” She had had her heart broken a few times. It didn’t recover so quickly. She just needed some time to settle into her new role, his girlfriend.
What’s more, she had no confidence in their relationship. After all, he had hurt her feelings before.
Liam released his hand, looking faintly disappointed, but he understood it. He had done lots of things wrong and said some very hurtful things. He needed time to prove his love for Rita.
Liam put his arms around Rita’s waist and said gently, “Are you hungry?”
Rita nodded, blushing furiously. Liam seemed in a splendid mood. The chilly relationship between them had finally improved. He played with Rita’s hair and said, “What do you want to eat?”
“Can we have pizza?” Rita said.
“Pizza sounds great,” Liam replied gently. Then he turned to Jacob and winked at him.
Jacob stared at Liam and his eyes popped in surprise. Didn’t Liam hate pizza?
Rita took good care of Liam in the hospital in the next couple of days. And soon, Liam was discharged.
When Jacob went to sign the discharge papers for Liam, Liam and Rita were waiting for the elevator.
When the elevator doors opened, they saw Lillian standing in it. Her face was gaunt and pale.
They were shocked when their eyes met. Rita felt more estranged from Lillian than ever. She despised the people who had betrayed her.
From that day on, Rita tried to avoid meeting Lillian, and Lillian had never contacted her too.
It was really awkward. The two girls did not say anything to each other. Rita stood aside to let Lillian pass. Lillian lowered her head and stepped out.
But before Rita stepped into the lift, her arm was held by Lillian. “Rita!”
For an instant Rita froze. She hadn’t moved from her spot and her eyes misted a little. “What’s up?” Rita asked.
“Can I have a word with you?” Lillian implored, in a low hoarse voice. “Just give me five minutes.”
Rita realized something was wrong. She wheeled to face Liam.
Liam had taken the hint. He rubbed her head gently and said, “Go ahead. I’ll just wait here.”
“OK.” Rita nodded and walked to the balcony. Lillian hurried to follow as she wiped her eyes.
Rita examined Lillian carefully when they stood at the balcony. Lillian’s eyes were red and swollen. It looked like she had been crying. And not only that, she was thin and gaunt.
“How are you?” Rita asked.
At the last word, tears coursed down Lillian’s cheeks. She was tempted to say that she had a wretched time, but she didn’t tell Rita the truth, because her pride wouldn’t let her.
She took a deep breath and managed a smile. “I’m fine, I’m fine,” she answered.
“That’s good,” Rita said, though she knew Lillian was lying.
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