When fate plays its hand

A flood of relatives and friends asked about Hansel, and Evelyn could only cover for him with the excuse of a business trip. But no one was fooled. Who’d go on a business trip on a holiday?

Even so, no one dared to lift the veil of pretense.

Evelyn couldn’t help but think back to the past..

When Hansel’s business thrived, bringing him success and prestige, she basked in the reflected glory. Her friends and relatives would praise her for raising such an accomplished

son.

Even her daughter was beautiful, poised, and respectful, always by her side as she attended to guests with grace. Everyone remarked on her elegance.

Even though Miranda wasn’t acknowledged and had no place at the Johnson family’s holiday celebrations, she never failed to send thoughtful and exquisite gifts.

But now, all of that was gone…

The more Evelyn thought about it, the more empty and meaningless it felt. If only she hadn’t stopped Miranda from marrying into the Johnson family back then, Hansel wouldn’t have turned into what he was today.

They would still be a harmonious, happy family. There’d be laughter, warmth, and familial affection.

She closed her tired eyes as regret filled her heart.

She truly regretted it. But it was too late. There was no turning back…

“Hans, are you sure you don’t want me to walk you in?” Calvin asked.

“No need.” Hansel stood upright, waving dismissively. “Just go.”

“Okay, but take care of yourself, alright? I really am leaving?”

“Go on.”

Hansel pushed open the villa door. Calvin watched his retreating figure and sighed. novelbin

The night before Easter, Calvin had been at home, spending the evening with family. He was eating, playing cards, and watching the holiday special. Then the bar manager called.

He told Calvin that Hansel was drunk. Since both of thein were regulars at this bar, the manager naturally called Calvin first.

Calvin hurriedly excused himself from the family card game, claiming a sudden stomach ache, and rushed to the bar to collect Hansel.

His family was still gathered, so he couldn’t be away for too long. But leaving Hansel like this… It didn’t sit right with him.

It was the holidays, and even the maids at Hansel’s place were on leave. Calvin thought it over and decided to contact Willow.

After all, she was Hansel’s current girlfriend–helping out was only natural. Thankfully, Willow hadn’t gone home for the holidays and was still in Elgerson.

When Calvin called, she asked a few concerned questions and immediately offered to come over and look after Hansel. Only then did Calvin feel at ease enough to drive away.

“Why put yourself through this on a holiday?” he muttered as he drove.

Sam’s latest post–a family photo–had clearly struck a nerve with Hansel.

When Calvin arrived at the bar, Hansel was so drunk he was clinging to Calvin’s arm, mumbling “Mimi” over and over. He even leaned in as if to kiss him. Thankfully, Calvin dodged in time.

Moments later, Hansel began slurring, “What does Sam have that I don’t? Why him? Why not me? He’s good enough, but I’m not? Mimi..

Two years had passed, yet Hansel still hadn’t let go of Miranda. No one had anticipated that she would leave so decisively. Most assumed it was just another temporary breakup, and they would eventually reconcile.

But fate had other plans. Even the best would stumble sometimes. Calvin couldn’t help but admire Miranda’s resolve at times. Other times, he pitied Hansel.

But most of all, he believed their separation and pursuit of individual happiness was for the best. After six years of ups and downs, if they couldn’t make it work, it was better to let go.

Life, after all, was full of regrets. Some things weren’t meant to be forced.

Still… Calvin furrowed his brow.

Was Miranda really with Sam now? Logically, it didn’t seem likely. He knew Miranda well enough to doubt it.