The Return of My First Love novel Chapter 7

Lucas was on one knee, grinning ear to ear. 

That same Valentine's Day, he told me he was away on a business trip. 

He even felt "guilty" for not making it home, so he wired me a ton of money. 

In our family group chat, he messaged both sides of the family: 

"I'm swamped with work and can't be there for Emily." 

"Mom, Dad, please take good care of her for me." 

He gave my parents a hefty sum, telling them to take me on vacation. 

Money had never been an issue for him—he was always generous with it. 

My parents refused the money and sent it back, but they were still amused by his efforts. 

"Don't worry, Lucas! Just focus on work. We'll take great care of Emily." 

Now I finally understood. 

Why, even after he betrayed me first, my parents still told me to "think of the bigger picture." 

Lucas had been perfect in every way—except for loving me. 

And because of family reputation, because of everything he'd done for my parents over the years, even if it was all just for show, I wasn't about to go out there and ruin his name. 

Meanwhile, Scarlett was busy venting online. 

"Why is it always the new girl who wins?" 

"Lucas and I have been together since college."

"But ever since Emily came back, everything changed." 

"She stole him from me. I can't accept it, and I won't give up on Lucas." 

"I'm carrying his child."

"I don't think I'm the one in the wrong, but I don't understand why Lucas refuses to keep the baby." 

"Lucas, you're heartless." 

Her comment section was flooded. 

And just like that, public opinion flipped in my favor. 

"I thought Lucas was this devoted, loving guy. Almost fell for it." 

"So you were the other woman all along?"

"A cheating jerk and his side chick. Perfect match." 

The Harrison Group took a major hit. 

Reporters swarmed the company's headquarters.

Even my family's business got dragged into the mess. 

My dad and Mr. Harrison—two men who were usually only seen in business news—were now being chased down for gossip. 

Journalists bombarded them with personal questions, ignoring all boundaries. 

They both rejected every interview, their faces dark with frustration. 

Lucas was immediately recalled to handle the PR disaster. 

My parents caught the first flight to Australia that night, ready to drag me back home if they had to. 

I dropped to my knees, tears streaming down my face.