You Picked Her, I Picked a Life Without You

"Congratulations, Daisy. We guarantee you'll get a scholarship to go to Harvard. In a month, you'll be there."

My smile widened as the Governor of Alaska placed a gold medal around my neck. I had just won the ice skating olympiad competition, something I had always dreamed of. The crowd roared, but one person I was expecting to see was nowhere to be found, Liam, my boyfriend.

I would be at the competition, Darling. Give me that stunning jump," Liam pledged last week. But the spot held for him was empty.

I headed into the changing room to switch out, then took a look at my phone to find Liam's excuse. Maybe he was held up by a snowstorm, or maybe he fell asleep with sheer exhaustion.

But what I found wasn't that.

A tweet alert popped up, and my hand trembled. Liam stood at the airport to pick up Jessica, hugging her with a growing smile. They were both laughing, like justreunited lovers. Liam's arm was across Jessica's waist in the picture, and the lipstick stain on his cheek seemed to mark ownership.

The messages that I had sent were unread, my calls completely ignored. The video had only been up two hours, the moment I had been skating along the ice.

Maybe I'd expected too much. Or. I'm not that important, not like Jessica.

"Daisy!"

Freya's voice shattered my disappointment. I smiled when I saw her holding my grandmother's hand, following me into the changing room.

"Wow, you were wonderful! That jump was fantastic. Perhaps I'll call you Ice Girl," Freya said with a grin. My small laugh could barely stifle my tears.

Grandma wrapped me in her arms, smiling proudly. "I knew you could do it, sweetie," she whispered softly.

"I saw how much you enjoyed skating. Do you have a boy you like here? If so, meet him for me now!"

I sneered, giving a resentful smile and a shake of the head. I melted at my grandma's words. Whatever I did shouldn't have been done for other folk, or my family but just to impress Liam.

I struggled to ignore what I was feeling. Then we had some hot chocolate, yet the sweetness upon my tongue had disappeared.

"Daisy, three days ago I met Max Winston and his family. They visited me at my home. Max was the first to inquire about you. I think… you two would be perfect for each other!"

I nearly choked hearing Max's name. Freya laughed.

“Grandma, don't play with me. I know Max is a good boy, but I think of him as a brother. And he does too. Didn't we used to live next door and play together when we were children?"

Grandma nodded hesitantly, and I went on explaining. "Besides… I want to lease an apartment and later become a skating coach for children in my free time.

"Really? Oh, dear, I need someone to look after you. I think Max and his family are good people. So, it won't be bad if Grandma has trusted him, is it?"

"Grandma, I…"

My words were cut off by Freya jumping in.

"Your grandma is right, Daisy. It's all for your own good. Instead of you being together with…"

Freya, who was sitting beside me, leaned close to my ear.

"Liam, huh?" she breathed, finishing the sentence. I glared at her with a sharp look, trying to cover up my disappointment.

"Who?" my grandma asked in wonder.

"Oh, nobody, Grandma. Freya's only joking," I answered quickly, trying to grip Freya's shirt behind her tightly, signaling her to be quiet.

"Grandma, after I start college at Harvard, I'll visit Max and his family. How about that? So quit teasing me now!" I tried to deflect.

Grandma smiled in approval, and Freya just smiled knowingly, as if she knew better than to talk.

Liam ought to have been there, being presented as my boyfriend. Three years, and no promises. I did not tell him about my Harvard acceptance. If he could let me down, then so be it; I'd do it all by myself.

That night, upon returning to the apartment, the room's heat welcomed me. But the sight in the living room stopped me in my tracks. Jessica was reclining comfortably on the couch, a cup of tea in her hand, smiling softly as she watched TV. And what hurt the most—she had on my favorite pajamas without asking.

"Why are you wearing my pajamas?"

Jessica stared at me, offended. Liam came out from the kitchen, carrying popcorn and pizza, like nothing was unusual.

"Sweetheart, Jessica came. She didn't bring pajamas. I took yours for her. It's okay, okay?"

I kept silent, my tongue frozen with repressed annoyance. Liam sat down next to Jessica without hesitation.

"Is she staying overnight?" I answered with a hint of sarcasm.

Jessica smiled weakly, looking at me with distress. "Daisy, sorry. The thing is, we were going to go to a hotel, but since it was already late, Liam brought me here instead."

Liam placated Jessica. "It's alright, Jessica. I'm sure Daisy won't mind letting you stay over." Eat the pizza while it's hot!

Liam fed Jessica, and I looked away. They both erupted in laughter as if I were a statue in here, cheese from the pizza dripping on Jessica's lips.

"Liam, don't rush to feed me! My mouth's all messy like a little kid," Jessica grumbled. Liam gently wiped her lips.

Liam finally realized that they had been ignoring me. He turned around. "Sweetheart, why are you just standing there? Sit down and join us."

I shot a look at Liam, expression speaking louder than words. "No! I'm tired, I need sleep."

Liam nodded and stayed silent. I went into the bedroom and closed the door.

Their laughter could still be clearly heard. "Liam, stop pinching my cheeks! It hurts!" Jessica screamed.

"Why not? I just can't help that your cheeks are like dough," Liam replied, followed by their laughter.

I heard the footsteps of Liam approaching. Suddenly, his hand crept around my waist.

"Why are you here?" I demanded, spinning to face him with a cold stare. Liam smiled.

"How was your practice skating, darling? Is that what tired you out?"

"I… didn't practice."

Liam was surprised. "I've reminded you several times now about this competition. Didn't I text you last night? You actually…"

I showed him the video that I had watched on Twitter. Liam looked shocked, trying to keep cool.

"Sweetheart, don't be mixed up. I was just too excited to go pick Jessica from the airport. Don't be upset, sweetheart. I just forgot that you had your competition today."

My heart tightened, like I'd been punched out of nowhere. I clenched my fists.

"Gotta go to the bathroom, my stomach hurts. Maybe from getting cold earlier." I didn't glance at him and left the room, going straight to the bathroom. Liam was just going to follow me, but Jessica was calling out to him.

My resolve was strong. It's better that I keep my Harvard acceptance secret. In the next 30 days, I will be out of his life.

I woke up to Liam and Jessica sitting side by side, laughing together. There was barely any space between them. I had thought Jessica had left home that day, but guess what, I was mistaken.

There was a post on her phone in her hand reading they looked like the perfect couple with a photo of her kissing Liam on the cheek.

"Liam, people say we look like the perfect couple. Hilarious, is it not?"

Jessica laughed, and Liam laughed with her. No denial. No telling me who he had really chosen.

"Daisy? You're awake?"

It was then that they realized I was there. The intimate space between them suddenly widened.

"Sorry if my presence here is uncomfortable," Jessica said in a honeysmiled sweetness I couldn't fathom. "Liam sat me down for a bit and told me to wait until breakfast time."

Jessica's excuse was always the same. She would always claim Liam's name as if she wasn't the one who had done it, just doing what he was doing. But with her eyes, I could see that she was happy to be still there.

I used to always give in after my college classes. I was willing to wait while Liam picked up Jessica first, sitting for hours just to be seen as the understanding girlfriend. Yet deep down, I knew this jealousy was only natural. And I should’ve been angry when Liam treated me differently when I wasn’t given the same special treatment he gave Jessica.

"Darling, sit down. I'll make breakfast."

Liam pulled me over to the couch, seating me next to Jessica. Jessica's forced smile was an attempt to unwind the tension, but I recognized it as merely a facade.

Liam soon came out of the kitchen with two slices of toast. Jessica ate on her own, while Liam was feeding me. The smell of the toast wasn't enough to calm my upset heart. Jessica still stared at me, smile was there but her eyes were telling a different story.

Liam attempted to lift the atmosphere with light conversation on breakfast. Jessica quickly interrupted him, remembering how there had been times in the past when she and he shared a class. I remained seated silently, a stranger at home.

Jessica made a sporadic attempt at dragging me into the conversation, as if we were friends. I knew she was doing this just to keep up appearances.

All at once, she coughed discreetly.

"Excuse me, I could use some water."

She arose and went towards the kitchen. I glanced over at Liam, seeking a second to speak with him. One moment, one moment, where I was alone with him.

"Could you take me to Grandma's house? I need to finish up some paper work for the family farm."

"Of course, Love. Finish your breakfast first. And then we will go."

Liam smiled and kissed my forehead. Warm. So soft it made me forget the uncertainty creeping in all these years.

Jessica returned with a glass of water in her hand. But just as she moved a step forward, her body collapsed. The glass in her hand broke on the floor, and all of us turned around to her with fear.

"Jessica!"

Liam leapt up immediately, catching Jessica's body as it dropped. He held the back of her head, frantic.

"My head… suddenly feels so dizzy, Liam…"

Her voice was reedthin, barely a whisper. Glass had sliced across her hand. Blood started to trickle.

Without hesitating much, Liam scooped up Jessica and carried her to the car. I followed behind, only able to watch their backs fade from view.

Once Jessica had settled into the passenger seat, Liam turned to face me.

"I'll pick you up later when I take Jessica to the hospital. Take this in case you ever need anything."

He handeYoue his black card. He was already gone before I could say anything. He got into the car, started the engine, and drove off.

I saw a glimpse of Jessica',s faint smile through the window as if she smiled triumphantly.

I stood there motionless. Liam left with Jessica. It wasn't the first time I was abandoned and let down.

I thought that if I stayed with him in this apartment, we'd become closer. I thought Jessica didn't have a place to stand in between us anymore. But I was wrong. I was merely his standby when he needed someone to fall back on.

Even now, Liam gave me a card, as if my feelings could be wrapped in luxury. He would say, "Jessica is my best friend, Daisy. I need to be around when she needs me. Enjoy the ctoun…"

I smiled mechanically. Inside, I knew. I didn't need his money. I just needed him to be there for me. But what I wanted never became his priority.

I chose to go alone to take care of my scholarship to Harvard. The excuse about the farm was just a cover. All the documents were already signed. In 29 days, I’ll be gone.

I chose myself. My dream, no longer about Liam.

I went inside the apartment and there was just silence. Liam still hadn't come home, he must still be tending to Jessica in the hospital. I went inside the living room and I saw his phone on the table. He even left that behind, all for Jessica.

When I was about to move it to the bedroom, there was a flash on my phone. It was an alert from Twitter. Its message was wrongly read by my eyes by accident.

There was a photo of Jessica kissing Liam on the cheek at the airport. Thousands of likes on the tweet, but some with cutting remarks.

[You two look so good together. You should be an official couple!] said one of them.

Another reply responded.

[Isn't Liam already dating? The pouty one, or so?]

They even put up a picture of me and Liam. A vintage selfie that somehow they managed to get their hands on. Perhaps from another of my social media platforms.

The other comments got worse.

[That's his girlfriend. Watch out, she will lose her mind and scratch Liam!] with a laughing emoji.

[Yeah, but seriously, Liam and Jessica are a better couple.]

I bristled when I spotted another comment, this time from Jessica herself.

[I know we look good together, but please don't upset their relationship.]

It was a defense on the surface. But I knew, concealed behind such sugary sentiments, was a knife slowly piercing. She was the one surreptitiously diverting Liam's attention away from me.

Meanwhile, Liam. as per usual, would not defend me.

My phone suddenly sprang to life, startling me. Freya was calling.

"Daisy, my uncle needs waiters. You still require employment, don't you?"

I fell silent for a moment before saying, "Yeah, I do. My ice skating training has also been put on hold for now. I'm idle at home."

"Good. Just report to his restaurant tomorrow and begin," instructed Freya.

I hung up feeling better. At least I had something that would stop me from dwelling on Liam.

The next day, I started working.

Freya’s uncle’s restaurant turned out to be quite fancy and was always full of customers.I tried to adapt, keeping myself busy so my mind could stay calm.

Everything was going great, until that afternoon. I was serving drinks on a tray to a private table. It was strictly business at first. But when I placed down the last drink, I heard that voice.

"Daisy? You work here?"

I stood upright, turning around slowly. Jessica was seated facing Liam. To her right, Jessica's friends were all holding their breaths, glancing at me with a derisive look.

Liam was taken aback, as if he did not even know me.

I was gripping the tray firmly in my palms, shoving back the bared teeth of hurt gnawing at me.

Jessica was sitting casually in her chair.

"Look at you, Daisy," she was saying to her, loud enough for the entire group around the table to hear.

Even nearby guests turned to look, with curiosity.

"There are those who stay where they are... and there are those who go higher. I think we all know who is just enough to be a servant.”

Jessica's friends' gentle guffaws echoed, slapping my ears.

"From ice skating champion to waitress," one of them quipped. "Life is full of surprises."

They all burst into laughter.

I remained silent. I noticed some of the other guests had started whispering, looking in my direction.

But I just continued moving ahead of them with head held high, serving food at the next table.

I played dumb. Played like I didn't care.

Walking past that table again, I noticed there were two other couples of adults sitting there. Jessica's and Liam's parents. They were smiling big while seated, and the mood shifted to something serious.

A host rang a glass.

"Good afternoon, everyone.

Today, we are pleased to announce the engagement of Liam Lancaster and Jessica Lynn. Let's give them our best."

There was a burst of applause.

I just remained standing in the corner, frozen.

Liam took a step forward, pulled out a tiny red box, and placed a ring on Jessica's finger.

Jessica looked at him with sheer joy.

What made my chest break even more was that Liam. was smiling too, as if everything was happening in real life.

Jessica pulled on his jacket collar, and before he could do anything, Liam stooped.They were kissing passionately, while the party people on the stools around them cheered loudly.

My hands shook so violently that I didn't even realize I'd dropped the tray, its metal ringing out loudly as it crashed, ruining the moment.

Everyone was staring at me. I quickly bowed my head and ran away, suppressing the tightening sensation in my chest.

I finished all my work, and then I headed home.

Evening, I had only taken a few steps when I overheard someone shouting.

"Daisy! Wait!"

I picked up the pace, pretending not to hear. No, Liam, he caught up with me and grabbed my arm, forcing me to stop.

"Let go of my hand. What are you doing to me, Liam?" I spat.

Liam let go of my arm, but his face grew red.

"I should be asking you. Why are you waiting tables at that place? You were embarrassing!"

I laughed, but my heart hurt.

“So, kissing Jessica there didn’t embarrass you?” He fell silent.

“Oh, I forgot. I should be congratulating you. Congratulations on your engagement to Jessica, Liam,” I said, forcing the words out even though they hurt.

Liam’s jaw tightened as if he was holding something back.

“Stop it, Daisy! I only did that for show.”

Liam stared deeply into my eyes.

“For show? Then why didn’t you deny the engagement just now? You seemed...”

My voice trailed off, and Liam waited.

“Seemed what?”

“Seemed like you were enjoying your role.”

Liam fell silent, as if at a loss for words, making me choose to walk away.

But Liam kept trying to stop me, even as I struggled to pull free.

“Daisy, wait! It’s not what you think.”

He let out a heavy sigh, as if searching for the right words.

“Our parents... they forced me.

I had no choice.”

I looked at him for a long time, holding back all the emotions that were about to explode.

“Then...” my voice grew weaker, “what are we really, Liam? What do you want, and what do you expect?”

He stayed silent.

And for the first time, I knew the answer without him having to say it.

Since that evening, I took great care to avoid Liam. Unconsciously, a week had passed and I had not even gone back to his apartment since his engagement to Jessica. He never made an effort to explain things to me, even just to persuade my heart.

I had a day off waiting tables today. I went to the mall and spent time with Freya. I spent some cash on shirts that I had been eyeing, and I laughed, at least for a little bit I did not think about Liam.

"Daisy, I'm starving. Let's go there!" Freya halted me and pointed to a restaurant that she had in mind. We had our arms full of shopping bags that we had collected from some shops in the mall.

"Are you sure you would want to go there?" I asked hesitantly. There was a tingling feeling in my stomach.

"Yes, you've never eaten there, right? Don't worry, I promise you'll love it," Freya assured me, before I could say something, she had already pulled my hand and taken me into the restaurant.

We had ordered food. At first, everything was fine, and I was relishing in the warmth of the restaurant. The food came out.

"How is it?" Freya asked when I put food in my mouth smiling in wonder.

"Not bad," I said curtly, hiding my look of surprise.

"Not 'not bad,' Daisy. This is seriously good! You haven't stopped chewing since before!" Freya was annoyed with me. I laughed at her tantrum, but my laughter later subsided when suddenly someone came to our table.

"Sorry, may I sit with you? The other tables are occupied, there's only this one besides you that is vacant." The voice sounded familiar, and when I glanced up, it was Jessica. She was accompanied by her friend, who was standing next to her. We were surprised to see each other.

"Hi Daisy. You're here too? That's great. May I sit with you?" Jessica smiled broadly.

I slowed down for an instant, staring at Freya. I scanned the rest of the tables that were around us, in search of a free seat. Oh well, just as Jessica said, the one to our right was the lone table still unoccupied.

"Come on, Daisy. Are we not friends? I just want you to share a seat. Do you mind?" Her voice was like insistence softly. I could no longer say no to her and finally nodded, inviting her to sit. Jessica smiled cheerfully and thanked me.

The moment sat, the air was too uncomfortable, Jessica waited for her food to come while I attempted to steer clear of her presence.

Jessica soon started playing with her fingers, but what I noticed was that she deliberately flaunted her engagement ring. The ring Liam put on her a week ago, the day I started working as a waitress to help fill out my spare time.

I was staring at her ring, Jessica smiled knowingly, as if she could read what I was thinking.

"Ahh, Daisy. Is that ring pretty?" She asked, with an arrogance that seemed to warm my heart.

"Good!" I replied curtly, not wanting to be annoyed. I hastily turned my head and continued eating my food, although it seemed as if nothing could possibly go in.

The tension thickened. Jessica seemed to be ignoring the emotions I was stifling.

"Daisy, I'm sorry. It wasn't I who took you away from Liam, but because our families wanted the engagement." Jessica's voice sounded as if it was regretful of all things, yet still one of those 'unconvincing excuses'.

"How are things between you and Liam now? All okay?" Jessica's hand clamped over my hand, trying to be genuine, yet everything was so insincere.

My eyes blazed at the hand now lying on me, then I slowly looked at her face. I jerked my hand away from her hastily.

"I'm fine," I said icily, without adding anything else.

Jessica leaned back in her chair, her intense stare fixed on me.

"Really? You're not acting about your feelings, are you?"

I remained silent, waiting for her to finish her sentence.

“If you're okay, why did Liam inform me that you don't come to his apartment as often as before? It hurts to see your room empty. I inquired from him… Liam simply replied, 'Daisy needs her own space.' But do not worry, Daisy…" Her hand touched mine once more. It was icy. She tilted her head to one side, looking at me with a serious face.

"I was tidying up the unwanted items there with Liam.".

The words hung thick with meaning like a sharp knife cutting deep within my heart. My jaw clenched. In an instant, I set my knife and forks down and chose to leave although I had not yet finished eating. I pulled Freya's hand quickly so that we could leave this establishment immediately. My mood shattered instantly.

"Daisy? Why did you run so quick? I just wanted to let you know." Jessica's yell was still trying to keep me back, but the further I went, the louder her tiny laugh could be heard cheering me on.

Feeling lost, I decided to head to Liam's apartment. Not to return, but to pick up some of my clothes. Following the meeting with Jessica, I couldn't deny the feelings that overwhelmed me anymore.

When I opened the door, I tried my best to be quiet. The apartment was quiet, and I knew Liam was not around. I walked in my room, pushing the door slowly. But once the door was ajar, Liam stood in front of the door, staring at me intensely.

"Have you stayed away long enough, Daisy?" His voice demanded a response.

I was shocked, left speechless for a second. My eyes fell, as if I couldn't bear to look at him. Liam moved a little closer, his eyes looking deep into mine.

"Where have you been the whole time, Daisy? You were the one who kept on insisting on this relationship, yet now you're avoiding me like I mean nothing to you."

For a brief moment the atmosphere around me grew cold, my mouth dry to answer him.

"Move out of the way, Liam!" I growled, pushing him aside frustratedly. I was in no mood to fight. I simply wanted to grab some clothes and return to grandma's home.

His eyes were intense, but I ignored it. I walked to the closet, pulled out my bag, and started stuffing my clothes into it. But before I could zip it up, Liam came over and threw my bag to the corner of the room.

"What do you mean?" I stood up, angry at him.

You want to go? Just leave and leave this place like that?!" he shouted. "Is another man following you now?!"

"If so? What do you need? Isn't Jessica already with you? I think this relationship is really meaningless," I shot back no less angrily.

Liam looked hurt, but retaliated quickly, "Daisy, I know you've been jealous of Jessica for a week now. I told you, my marriage to Jessica is business. I love you. More than anything."

Suddenly his squeaky voice softened, I mocked a laugh.

"This isn't jealousy, Liam. This is you constantly belittling my feelings. If you love me so much, show me. Break up with Jessica, end it with her now!"

He remained silent.

I stepped closer, looking deep into his eyes.

"You can't, can you? Even on the day of my ice skating competition, the most important day for me… you forgot. You were too busy welcoming Jessica from the airport, even after I reminded you every day."

Previously, I would have chosen to remain silent, to give in, to hold on to this relationship. But now I understand, what I've been protecting all this time wasn't love. but lies.

"From now on, we're done, Liam. This relationship is over. Besides, our parents don't even know about us, do they?

My tears fell, I no longer hid them. For the first time. I let myself feel the pain.

"What? No, Daisy… don't do this." Liam's voice was frantic, he was rushing towards me, his breath in short gasps.

I turned my face away, but he held my arm gently as if he was truly afraid of losing me.

"I'm sorry…really," he whispered.

"I was wrong for missing your competition. I don't know what I was thinking. That day I should've been there, supporting you, hugging you after you won…"

Liam's eyes started to turn red.

"But I chose Jessica instead. I also apologize for not being able to accompany you to take care of your family's ranch files. I... took your feelings for granted.”

I stared at him silently. Trying to look for the final remaining sincerity in his eyes.

He grabbed my hand, placing it on his chest. His heartbeat was pounding wildly, as if to reassure me.

"If you still feel even a little bit… don't go."

I inhaled. Before, this hug would have melted me. But now… I wasn't sure I wanted to stay.

Liam looked at me passionately.

"I know I messed up. But give me a chance. Just one. I'll make it all right. I'll come to whatever you want. Even to your ice skating practice every day if you want."

My heart was pounding. But I couldn't trust him anymore.

"You trust me, right?" he asked softly.

I nodded slowly. Smiling a bit like I meant it.

Yes, I forgave him. But only pretended to. Liam hugged me, as usual. But this time it was flavorless. Maybe… my heart could no longer sense his touch.

Besides, in twenty days I'll be going away. There is no point in forcing love that has lost its form.

"Then…" Liam let out a sigh of relief, then suddenly lifted up my body.

"HHey!" I shouted.

"I'm not letting you go anywhere, honey!" Liam suddenly picked me up and placed me on the bed.

"So.can I sleep here, with you?" He playfully grinned at me.

"No!" I willingly answered, then I pushed his body with all my might.

Liam's body fell over the edge of the bed and crashed onto the floor with a loud thud. He winced, rubbing his back.

"Aww… why'd you put me down? It's okay if you don't want to."

Liam tried to laugh. I gave him a cold look. Somewhat taken aback, but not sorry.

Liam got up, brushing his clothes lightly.

"Alright. If you want to sleep alone, I'll go."

He walked to the door, but before he went out, turned around. He came back, then bent, kissing my forehead.

"I love you so much, Daisy," he whispered, but I didn't say anything.

Liam smiled slightly before he gradually closed the door.

And when the door was completely closed, I just stared at the ceiling. Flat and empty.

No more pounding heart anymore. No yearning. No sensation when I'm with him.

The next morning, Liam made breakfast for me like he was really trying to win my heart. He fed me. And I fed him sometimes, just like before.

Liam took my hand and said, "Thank you, Daisy. We've repaired our broken relationship. I don't want to lose you."

I nodded and smiled, pretending along. I became the old Daisy again, warm, gentle, and submissive. In secret, though, I packed my bags each night for five nights.

I was happy I could attend Freya's engagement. She was smiling, and I forgot my grief for a time. We sat together afterward as we once did. I said I was leaving, and she cried and clung to me.

You're my best friend, Freya. Not just a friend… you're like a sister to me," I replied, hugging her back.

"Before you go to Harvard… I want us to meet often. Like we used to in the past," Freya managed between sobs.

"Yes, of course," I said.

But when I remember the moment that the ring was placed on Freya's finger, I can manage only a bitter smile. I want to feel the same. I want Liam to be beside me at the altar. But in life, my finger is empty. It means nothing.

I said goodbye to Freya after dinner. Shortly afterward, I received a message from Jessica.

[Daisy, can you take Liam. He's got a fever right now. He's in my apartment.]

I immediately replied and said I would go. I was just being a good girlfriend, at least for the time being here. But when I arrived at Jessica's apartment and walked towards her halfopen room, I heard something.

"Liam, don't do this. What if Daisy discovers?" Jessica's voice was spoiled and breathy.

Liam's voice followed after the searing kiss. He sounded casual, and sneered.

"Daisy? Oh, she's my submissive girlfriend. Like a dog that always listens to its master. She won't get angry at anything we do."

My throat constricted. My body was like it froze at Liam's response to me.

I could clearly see Jessica's smile spread across her face, as if all her worries had disappeared. However, I was sure... She was just pretending to care about my feelings.

"Really? So... Who is more worthy to be your partner, Liam?" Jessica tilted her head, returning the kiss to Liam much more fiercely.

“Of course, you are. Daisy is just a backup… someone I use when I’m lonely.”

I froze. In front of me, they were wrestling shamelessly. Their clothes were scattered on the floor. They didn't even lock the door.

Turns out, I was never an option. Just a stopover.

I took a step back, not caring what they did.

When I arrived at the apartment, Jessica asked me why I hadn't picked up Liam. I smiled sarcastically, it turned out that the reason Liam had a fever and I had to pick him up was just Jessica's trick. She must have deliberately provoked me by doing that disgusting thing in front of me.

With a feeling of anger, I decided to pack my clothes, all of them. I would be leaving in two weeks.

The next day, I ignored Liam again. I busied myself as a waitress and occasionally went ice skating to vent all my anger through sharp and cold movements on the ice.

A week before departure, my room was almost empty. But Liam didn't even notice.

That night I had just come home from work. Just as I opened the door, Liam's hand immediately pulled me and pressed me against the wall. His breath reeked of alcohol, his sharp gaze locked on me.

"We meet again. Again, you've been avoiding me for the past week. Weren't we just making up? We were laughing like we used to and suddenly you're shutting me out again, Daisy!" Liam demanded.

"Get out of my way, Liam. I don't think I need to explain myself to you anymore."

Liam didn't give in, he grabbed my shoulders.

"I deserve to know, Daisy! You can't treat me like this. A week ago you were always texting me, asking how I was, feeding me breakfast. Then suddenly... you're distant again."

I groaned softly, trying to push his hand away. “Stop acting like it means anything.”

I pushed his body, Liam's body moved a little away. And he staggered back towards me.

"What do you mean?" he said as his eyes sharpened on me.

"If you keep avoiding me, then... I will make sure that the engagement between me and Jessica will never end. And soon I will decide to marry her immediately!"

I laughed sarcastically. "Isn't that your plan? Just do it! I don't care."

I was about to leave and ignore Liam but his hand grabbed mine, making me wince.

"I'm sure you still care about me, Daisy. It's easy for you to say that because you're jealous of Jessica."

I tried to release the hand that was gripping my wrist, but its grip grew tighter.

"Liam, let go. You're out of your mind now."

But he didn't listen. With one pull, he dragged me towards the bedroom, his steps unsteady but full of anger. I screamed, trying to hold myself up, but he was stronger. When we reached the bedroom, he pushed me onto the bed.

My body was thrown, and I immediately got up. But Liam was already standing in front of me, his eyes dark with heavy breathing.

"What more do you want from me, Daisy? I begged! I tried to change!" he shouted.

Liam grabbed his collar, ripping it open roughly, as if to show that he was losing control. I stepped back, panicked.

"Liam, enough. You're drunk. You don't know what you're doing!" my voice rose, my chest pounding.

"Daisy, I'll show you what love is like. And maybe this way, you won't avoid me anymore."

Liam pressed every word. Without warning he ripped my clothes off. I was shocked, screaming, but he silenced me with a furious kiss. His breath hitched.

My tears fell but Liam didn't care. Even both of my hands were in his grip, making it difficult for me to move further. This was the first time, he was rude to me after years of our relationship.

My legs moved wildly, then I managed to kick his body and immediately got off the bed.

"Stop it, Liam. You're hurting me! Is this how you're going to make me melt?" I sobbed, wiping my tears roughly.

"Daisy, I just..." Liam began to realize in his drunken stupor.

I just looked at him with a disappointed look then I chose to leave without waiting for Liam to explain.

"Damn it! Bastard!"

I covered part of my body with the jacket I found. Then walked, with messy clothes just like my feelings.

My mood soon improved when I met Freya. Meeting her made everything better. Her jokes, her stories that made me laugh made me forget my bitter feelings.

Freya even told me about her wedding date. I'm not jealous of her, in fact I'm happy to hear that.

Another unexpected meeting happened. Jessika came to the restaurant where I worked, ordering food alone. When I had delivered her last dish, she pulled my hand to sit with her.

"I have to continue my work, Jessica. If you want to chat, find another friend." I said coldly and was about to leave. But her grip tightened.

"Come on, Daisy. I just want to talk to you for a minute."

I was silent, waiting.

"Why didn't you come when I said Liam had a fever, Daisy?" She asked, looking me deep in the eyes.

"You know... He kept talking in his sleep, calling your name. I was confused because you weren't here yet. Then suddenly Liam pulled my hand into his embrace. But what happened... was more than that."

She chuckled, looking down as if reminiscing about a sweet moment.

"So... I'm sorry, Daisy. Something happened between us that night that I can't forget. Has Liam explained it to you?"

I was speechless feeling the blow in my chest. In fact I witnessed it myself before my eyes.

“Ah, you know… I don’t think he’s ever had it from you before. He really enjoyed that night. In fact… he said he wanted to do it again.”

I held back the anger burning in my throat.

"After that," Jessica continued casually, "he said he wanted to take our relationship more seriously. We're going to get married soon. So I think... your relationship with him should end."

My breath hitched. Jessica smirked, enjoying every second of my destruction.

“Then what do you want?” I asked sharply, leaving no room for hesitation.

"Oh, no! Don't think badly of me. I just... Want to invite you to our wedding. Can you be my bridesmaid, Daisy? But you have to break off your relationship so it won't be awkward when you meet us later."

Only now do I really understand what Jessica is saying.

"Could it be… you're in love with Liam?" I asked, staring into his eyes.

Jessica grinned faintly. "Maybe. We've dated recently. Since we were children, he's stuck with me. Don't be shocked, Daisy. Haven't you noticed?"

Jessica paused for a second, then smiled faintly.

"So I suppose you have to get used to not having Liam around. You're just a pit stop, Daisy. I'm the harbor."

I smiled at him, sarcastic but even.

"You're right. I do need to step back. Take Liam from me, Jessica. I don't care."

A shocked look flickered on Jessica's face, but she hid it quickly with a forced smile.

For me, the question is settled. Liam and Jessica? They were made for each other. Two disgusting humans who are meant to be together.

I rose from my seat.

"By the way, I'm sorry that I can't be your bridesmaid. My life is too important to care about silly things like this."

"I need to return to work, thanks for wasting my precious time, Jessica!" I continued.

Jessica scowled at me, but I didn't care. I picked up my tray, glared once at her with a sneering smile, then turned and left without even looking back.

I never went to the apartment again after that incident. I blocked Liam's number. Jessica told me what made everything make sense. I had to wait just seven more days and I could leave.

When I arrived at my grandmother's house, as usual, she welcomed me lovingly.

"Grandma, can I live here again?" I asked in a low tone.

Grandma frowned. "What's with that? You're home, too. Don't act like a visitor. Come in!" she replied, shaking her head. I laughed.

With Liam, I felt suffocated. But with grandma, I felt more calm than anywhere else.

Grandma, if I go to Harvard, will you miss me?" I asked her.

"Naturally, sweetie. I'll just keep on calling even if you're not an easy reach, like a celebrity," he shot back sullenly. I and grandma giggled.

"Relax, Grandma. This time I promise, I will answer all of your calls." I hugged her tight. She was the only one who was truly there for me since I was a little kid, since I lost my parents.

There were three days that passed by without even realizing it.

"Daisy, before you go to Harvard, you should go see your father and mother's graves. Don't you miss them?" Grandma asked me one morning.

"Of course I miss you, Grandma. I was going to go there before I went away."

"That's great. I was looking for a framed photo of your parents, but somehow it was missing. I wanted to give it to you."

"Oh, I have it, Grandma. It is on my side. I will look for it later, and I will give it to you too."

I had only remembered that the album and the pictures were still at Liam's flat.

"Grandma would like to buy lilies before going to the funeral," she said as she stood up.

"I will, Grandma. When I go out, I'll buy the flowers and get the album."

Grandma nodded. So I went out, bought two sets of lilies and returned to where I was said to have left.

I packed some of the important things, including my parents' photo album and wooden picture frames I had placed in my room. I neatly packed all of them into a cardboard box.

However, when I opened the bedroom door and was about to leave Liam's apartment, I encountered Liam and Jessica.

"Daisy, where have you been staying all these past few days? Your room is empty," Jessica asked, sounding artificially concerned.

I stared at him vacantly. "That's not your business. Isn't this what you desired? I'm selfconscious, especially since you're soon to be wed, right?"

Liam appeared confused and looked at Jessica, as if to clarify.

Jessica smiled faintly, trying to diffuse the tension. "Gosh, Daisy. You're too serious. What I said earlier was a joke."

"It was just a minor misunderstanding between women," she told Liam.

Liam inched closer.

"Calm down, Daisy. I will marry you anyway, while my wedding with Jessica is only hypothetical."

I smiled lopsidedly, almost sarcastically.

"A mock wedding? What is the drama that you people are performing?"

"I'm serious." Liam ran his hand across my shoulder gently. "We'll be legally married. But to the world, Jessica will be standing beside me at the altar as a substitute bride. That's all. I want you to be my real wife."

I blinked in confusion, trying to decipher what he was saying. "So, I'll be your legal wife. But people will believe that you're Jessica's husband?"

Jessica leaped in immediately, speaking in a soft yet confident voice.

"Yes, Daisy. I'm just going to act like an imposter bride. That's all."

I chuckled, sarcastically. "And what if my family came over to see you and discovered me living with you? What would you do?"

Liam sighed in frustration. "That's one easy lie to come up with. I'll figure something out. What counts now is that you accept this wedding."

I shook my head slowly. It was absurd to hear their absurd plans.

Jessica inched closer, slipping her arm around me in a comfortable manner. Her body was pressed close as if we were intimate friends.

"Daisy, please. I don't want to embarrass my family if this wedding is not going to happen. I also don't want to be the cause of you and Liam breaking up."

I remained silent, starting to feel uncomfortable with her too close gesture. The lady who had earlier angered me to resign was now on her knees begging for help.

Without saying anything, I pulled my body back from her. My movement, however, made the cardboard box in my hand sway and fall.

The incident happened so fast. The cardboard box in my hand fell, its contents scattered. A wooden frame of my parents' photo... flew and hit Jessica's foot.

"Aaargh! My feet!" She screamed, swaying in pain. The broken frame glass hit the floor, the shards scattering. Blood started flowing from her legs.

I was shocked, about to approach. But instead I stepped on my own broken glass. Pain shot from the soles of my feet, making me stagger.

However, what was more painful was not the wound... but when Liam ran towards Jessica, kneeling down in panic, worried about her condition.

"Jessica!? Hang in there. I'm here!"

I held my breath. Wanting to speak. But before I could say a word, Liam stood up and glared at me. He pushed me roughly until my body hit the wall.

"Do you see what you're doing?! What are you carrying? Those useless things are hurting Jessica!"

I choked and shook my head slowly. It was a photo of my family that was very precious to me. The only memory I had left but Liam said it was useless.

Liam didn't even care that my leg was bleeding, didn't care that Jessica had elbowed me first and made the box fall. All he knew was... I was wrong.

"Liam... I..."

Suddenly Jessica collapsed, crying weakly.

"Liam! It hurts so much. I can't take it."

Liam immediately turned to approach Jessica.

"I'll take you to the hospital."

Jessica nodded weakly. Without hesitation, Liam lifted her body, hugging her as if there was nothing more important in this world than her.

Before leaving, he turned to me. His eyes were full of anger.

"If something happens to Jessica… I don't know what I'll do to you, Daisy!"

Without waiting for my answer, he left. Taking Jessica without looking back at me. Not asking a single question even though I was hurt too. All he saw was Jessica, always Jessica.

I crawled, picking up the shattered picture frame. The remaining glass stabbed my palm, but I didn't care. My tears fell, either because of the hurt, Liam's words, or the nowshattered portrait of my parents.

“I’m sorry… Dad, Mom… I dropped you…” I whispered hoarsely.

I wanted to justify Liam's attitude, that Jessica was indeed his priority. But the truth still hurt. For years I held back these feelings, pretending to be strong. But still... being ignored hurts.

A few days after that incident, I disappeared. Calming down at Grandma's house. But Liam didn't come. Didn't look for me even though he knew my grandmother's house. Maybe he didn't intend to be serious about this relationship.

And that's the reason he kept this relationship a secret from the start.

I was stupid enough to believe him. Including that day, at my socalled important ice skating competition. I thought he was going to propose to me. But it was just empty hope.

All this time I was the one who always gave in, always prioritizing him. But enough.

Quickly, I gathered the rest of my belongings. The photos in the album, the memories that were still there, I put them in a cardboard box. I carried them, even though my legs were still sore. I put them in the car, then sat for a moment.

After treating my wounds, I left. With Grandma, I visited my parents' graves. There, I stared at their tombstones. Missing the figures who had passed away.

That night, the ice rink was colder than usual. Or maybe, it was just me.

I stood in the middle of the track, wearing the old shoes that had seen me through injuries and seasons. On the other side of the fence, Coach Elena looked at me. Her smile was soft, but her eyes were puffy.

"Still hard to believe you're going to Harvard," she said, patting my back gently.

I smiled faintly.

"I'm not sure this is real either."

We embraced warmly and meaningfully.

"Don't forget who you are, Daisy," she whispered. "Keep shining and keep achieving your goals. Follow your dreams, honey. You're still my brave little girl."

I nodded, holding back tears.

"Take care of yourself, okay!" She let go of the hug. I smiled and nodded at his words.

After she left, I stayed.

Looking at the empty track. I put on my ice skates and started to glide, letting my body dance to the faint music from the corner of the room. Every movement, spin and jump, was an outpouring of my buried feelings. I glided fast, as if I wanted to leave all the bad memories behind my ice blade trail.

But my mind wandered far away. Thinking about Liam hurting me and the freedom that didn't feel complete yet.

Then, a voice broke my reverie.

"You are great."

I turned around. A man was standing at the edge of the track. He looked strange but somehow felt familiar. He smiled, waiting for my reaction.

"Can I join? Or... can you teach me?"

I hesitated for a moment. Then I nodded.

“It’s okay. As long as you don’t cry when you fall.”

He laughed warmly. “Relax. I’m ready.”

I taught him the basics. He fell down a lot, and we laughed every time it happened. Laughed out loud, a laugh I haven't had in a long time.

For a moment, I forgot everything. Forgot my tears when Liam's words hit me in the chest. Forgot the disappointment. On that ice, I felt alive again.

The night was getting late without me realizing it. My body was tired. I fell asleep at the inn, I don't know when I was taken there. The last thing I know, the man gave me a ride but I fell asleep in his car.

I tried to remember what went on last night when I woke up this morning. When I nodded to the man who brought me to this inn in a very sleepy state.

My body was numb, probably from playing on the ice for so long, falling over and over again, taking too much punishment for my own body. When I touched my forehead, it hurt. My head was throbbing, and for some reason my body was shaking.

I grabbed my bag and ran out of the inn. As I reached for the taxi door, someone stood in my way.

"Daisy? Where are you going?" it was Liam's voice.

I looked around for a moment. "I'm going home and I'm going to give this taxi a try."

My tone was frosty, slightly sarcastic. But he didn't budge. His eyes ranged over my shivering figure as I hugged my jacket tighter around me.

"Let me take you there," he said.

I shook my head. "No need!"

But Liam refused to move.

"Are you sick? Your lips are white."

Without even questioning, he touched my forehead, and then pulled back his hand in shock.

"You have a fever. Come, I'll take you."

His hand gripped mine so hard as if he did not want to let me go.

"Why are you concerned? In case someone sees you here with me. Then they will pick up other signals. And everyone knows you are marrying Jessica." I spat at him.

His eyes were locked. But I couldn't read his expression in time. My body suddenly went limp. My vision blurred.

The last thing I remembered. Liam panicked and screamed for me to address him by his name.

I woke up in a warm blanket. Still dizzy and tired, but the aroma of chicken broth filled the air, warming up the chaos in my body.

Liam's hand pressed a cold towel to my forehead.

“You’re awake, huh?” Liam’s voice was soft.

I looked at him. His stern face was no longer hard. The room was quiet, the only noise audible was breathing.

"Then what?" I croaked.

"You fainted because of a high fever. So… I brought you home. The doctor checked you beforehand, you'll be fine."

Relief slowly crept into my body.

"Ah, you must eat first. Then your medicine. I'll feed you, okay? I prepared this for you," she said, holding up a bowl of steaming soup.

"Liam, you don't have to—"

"Don't say that," he cut in gently. His eyes were deep and genuine. He spooned the soup, blew gently, and then fed it to me.

When he'd eaten, he brushed my cheek with his thumb.

Seeing him laugh, I too smiled. His laughter at sharing light things dissipated the disappointment that hung there. In some sense, the old feeling returned once more.

When he used to come and take me home from college, he sat in his car with a smile to greet me.

"Don't worry. I'm here. Take a rest, Daisy."

I shut my eyes. His touch lulled me into his arms. I felt like I missed him and needed him.

"Sleep first, Daisy. I'll take care of you."

His hug was so soft, the slap on my back was so reassuring. I chose to dissolve in the warmth he radiated, shutting my eyes, with serenity, wishing time would freeze for a moment.

Morning approaches. I woke up with a light head, my fever had broken.

Liam woke up who slept next to me.

"Good morning, Daisy. How are you? Are you much better?" he asked with a smile that always softened my heart.

I nodded.

"Yes. It seems like my fever has gone down," I replied.

"Wait a minute, I'll check!" He lightly touched my forehead.

"You've had enough rest and your condition is much better." He smiled happily, as if pleased to see my improvement.

I nodded. "Because you have taken care of me."

Liam didn't have time to answer. But his phone rang. It was found that there were several missed calls from Jessica. And there were a few messages which Jessica sent and in which the woman needed Liam.

I witnessed Liam get up and get up from my bed.

"I have to go to the hospital. Jessica needs me." I scowled at him in disappointment as Liam hurried away, the heat seemingly lost from me that instant.

I gasped for air. "Can you stay this time?"

He shook his head. "Sorry Daisy, Jessica needs me now."

And then I understood, Liam never changed. He left me.

I laughed with bitterness. It was foolish to ever have hoped for anything more.

I forced myself to stand, writing a letter in trembling hands. I took off the necklace he gave me and put it on my bedside table. Earlier, he wanted the necklace to be a reminder to keep him in mind and, in the process, also protect me when Liam was not around. But now I do not want to wear it anymore.

Freya and Grandma saw me off from the airport in the afternoon.

"Hold on well, dear friend." Freya hugged me warmly, tearfully from authentic sincerity, while we parted ways. We held on to each other like two siblings who did not want to release one another. Then alternately, I hugged my grandma.

"Don't forget to inform me when you arrive. And be in touch with me often," my grandmother instructed. Her tears could no longer be held, and so could mine.

I stepped away, waving my arms to release the heavy burden. The two real figures warmly waved. They embraced each other to encourage themselves, and observed me leave.

Now, I no longer cry for Liam. I have to move on and pursue my dreams and ambitions without him.