"COFFEE DATE"

"Oh, why are you smiling?”

I hadn’t realized that Marius caught my reaction, so I was taken aback when he spoke.

“Huh?” I asked, trying to ignore the warmth spreading across my cheeks.

I wasn’t sure if Marius sensed that I didn’t want to answer his question, but deep down, I was relieved that he didn’t push further.

As I had hoped, it was a coffee date. I didn’t know what we were supposed to talk about, as he had suggested, or maybe he had something to confess. I couldn’t be certain. So, I chose to remain silent.

“Now tell me, what happened when you left me? Why did things end up this way?” Marius asked, his tone and expression serious as he locked eyes with me. My calm facade wavered slightly at the intensity of his gaze.

I knew Marius and I would eventually have this conversation. I accepted that and expected it. But I wasn’t prepared for the rush of emotions his question brought. Perhaps because I hadn’t anticipated him bringing it up now.

“M-Marius, can we talk about this another