Marrying Without My Eight-Year Boyfriend Knowing novel Chapter 57

After the drip was done, the room started spinning. I stumbled after taking just a few steps.

Nathan still hadn't shown up. No calls, no texts.

I bit my lip and called him, wanting to avoid any drama later.

When he heard I was still at the hospital, there was a pause.

"Sorry, Olivia. I was going to come right back after taking Sophie home, but her stomach started hurting, so..."

Before he could finish, I heard a waitress in the background. "Your entrees are served, sir. Enjoy your meal!"

He tried to cover the phone, but I'd heard enough.

"It's fine. I can manage."

I said it as much to convince myself as him.

Just as I was about to hang up, he called my name. "Olivia, just head home. I'll explain everything later."

Explain what? More lies to string me along?

I ended the call without another word and ordered a ride home.

He didn't come back that night.

Unable to sleep with the fireworks going off outside, I pulled out my tablet to work on some custom jewelry designs for a client.

While sketching, I accidentally tapped the social media app in the corner. A post from an hour ago popped up.

It was Sophie's: a stunning photo of fireworks lighting up the night sky. The caption read:

"After five years away, I'm finally back where I belong. These fireworks welcome me home in the most perfect way!"

I gave her a polite smile and tried to leave, not feeling close enough for small talk.

But she wasn't done. As I turned to go, she stopped me again.

"I noticed last time that Nathan always rinses the shrimp for you before peeling it. Do you also avoid spicy food?"

That word - "also" - made me pause.

Truth is, I love spicy food. But every time Nathan peeled shrimp for me, he'd insist on rinsing them.

He always said spicy food wasn't good for young women.

I'd thought he was being protective.

Now I understood - it was just habit.

The one who couldn't handle spice - the one he was thinking of - was Sophie.