41

Ariana

Leaving the crowd, I encountered a man. Although his skin had darkened significantly, I recognized his face at a glance. He stood before Lucas and me, causing me to involuntarily halt my steps. I don't want to meet him with Lucas at this time.

"Ariana, it's been a long time," the man said. He smiled, his tone carrying a hint of sadness. "You've grown beautifully confident. I almost didn't recognize you. And congratulations."

Familiar yet unfamiliar,

Rennes, the person I used to have a secret crush on. He was the son of a friend of my father. In our childhood, we used to play together. Back then, I thought we'd always be together. But later, I found out he had slept with my sister, and my innocent crush came to an abrupt end.

"Thank you, Rennes. When did you come back?" I looked at him calmly, and the sense of distance in my tone stunned him for a moment.

"About two years ago. I heard recently that you got married to…"

"Ariana, who is he?" Lucas interrupted our conversation, st