Chapter 3 : Apparently , Im Not Good Enough untless Under the gaze of eyes and cameras , even several live streams with thousands of viewers , Julian kissed Seraphina , tender and passionate . Sonya was a mere backdrop , looking superfluous and ridiculous . See ? You happy now ? Julian , seething , gestured towards the paparazzi and reporters crowding the doorway . Want to hear our love story ? Fine , Ill give it to you ! Ive been secretly in love with Seraphina since junior high . I told her how I felt after high school , and weve been together for eight years ! Shes the only woman I love , whether its past , present , or future ! Ill give her wedding of the century . Only Seraphina is worthy of my love , remember that ! A huge declaration , witnessed by countless people online and offline . Wow … The sharp applause was jarring . All eyes turned to the source . 1 Sonya , in her white coat , looked refined and beautiful . Her hair was short , her aura clean and restrained . She clapped , smiling . Inspired by her , the paparazzi , reporters , and onlookers began to clap along . Julian looked at Sonya , his eyes flickering with a hint of guilt . That Was SO beautiful . Congratulations Julians face hardened . We dont need your blessing ! to you both , Sonya said calmly . He grabbed Seraphina and stormed out . The paparazzi and onlookers followed , leaving the office . Sonya sat down , clutching her aching back . She lifted her shirt to reveal two large bruises . Near the end of the shift , Sonyas phone buzzed . It was 11. new friend request . Im Henry Sullivan . Henry Sullivan ? It took Sonya a moment to place him . Shed only spoken to him twice on the phone . As his future wife , she should friend him on WhatsApp . With that thought , she accepted his request . Facing the blank chat screen , Sonya didnt know what to say . After a while , she exited WhatsApp , gathered her things , and left . It was dark outside . As she was about to hail a cab , a black Maybach pulled up . The window rolled down . Leo grinned , waving to her . Sonya , Jakes new bar is having its grand opening tonight , and he asked me to pick you up . Leo emphasized the word asked . Then he chuckled . Leo Jones and Jake Parker were Julians childhood friends , and Sonya got along with them . Thus , she couldnt just say no . In the car , Leo handed her a bottle of water . T was at Seraphinas birthday party , too , Leo said , sounding apologetic . 0.0 % Sonya opened the bottle and took a few sips . Shed seen the video of the party Julians proposal , and Leos enthusiastic cheers : Marry him ! Marry him ! Its kind of a tradition for her birthday , right ? I didnt take it seriously , and I guess Julian didnt either . Who knew Seraphina would actually say yes ? Of course , theres a reason she did . Still , its not fair to you . Thank you for saying that . Uh , Julian was really just trying to help Seraphina . As a friend , if I asked you to choose between me and Seraphina , who would you pick ? Leo didnt hesitate . You , of course ! Sonya laughed . Even if youre lying , I appreciate it . Leo shook his head . Im not lying . Ive known Seraphina longer , but I prefer being friends with you . Well , thats why you picked me up . Lets not talk about Julian anymore . Im done with him . Leo stuck out his tongue . People say things they dont mean when theyre upset . Sonya frowned . He thought she was just sulking , not really breaking up with Julian ? Jakes new bar was tucked away in a courtyard , its back wall painted with opera masks . There was a small pond in the center , lanterns hanging from the veranda . It was quiet and atmospheric . Leo pointed to a room at the east end and went to the restroom . Sonya approached the room . Just as she was about to open the door , she heard Julian shouting . who wanted to break up , not me ! Jake , will you stop it ? Shes the Jake sighed . Still , you made a mistake . Seraphina needed help , what could I do ? But Sonya … one Sonya what ? To me , shes far less important than Seraphina . You ! Youll regret this someday ! Shes the one who should regret it . Every time Seraphina needed me , she broke then shed come crawling back . Yesterday once more . Dont worry . e up with me , and Look , youre taking advantage of Sonyas love . But even the deepest love can run out . I got you a bouquet of roses . Apologize to Sonya later . Sonya took a deep breath and opened the door. Jake rushed to greet her . Sonya , Im so glad you came . Shed brought a gift for the opening a lucky cat figurine . Congratulations . Wish you success . Jake accepted the gift . Thank you . He winked at Julian , then turned to Sonya . Have a seat . I need to greet some guests . I wont stay , Sonya followed Jake outside . Ill come another time . Sonya … nas Apparently Thank you for everything . She offered a conciliatory smile to Jake and turned to leave . As she reached the door , Julian caught up with her . Sonya , are Sonya ignored him and continued walking . Ive already explained . Dont push your luck ! Julian blocked her path , looking impatient . my penance you done ? Sonya glared at him , sneering . I heard everything you said in the room . I was really pathetic . Why would I believe I was good enough for you , Mr. Jennings ? I was wrong . Those eight years were for that mistake , but I wont make the same mistake again ! fized on hers . As Sonya turned to leave , Julian grabbed her wrist , his eyes Must you do this ? Let go of me ! Julian tightened his grip , his eyes blazing with anger , A moment later , he pulled her towards his car . Julian , Im not getting in your car ! Lets go home ! No ! Looks like youre mat at me for giving you the cold shoulder ! Tonight , Im making it up to you . No , for the next two days , youre not getting out of bed ! Title: Cherry Author: CrushReel Genre: Romance, Modern, Romantic Status: ongoing In "Cherry" by CrushReel, Ivy League freshman Aaron Milton, 17, embarks on a unique journey of love with Linda, 34, a spirited former wild-child navigating her return to college for a fresh start. As their paths intertwine, Aaron finds himself immersed in a world beyond textbooks, where lessons of the heart take center stage. Exploring themes of age disparity and personal growth, "Cherry" delves into the complexities of relationships and self-discovery. Aaron's youthful innocence contrasts with Linda's life experience, creating a dynamic that challenges societal norms and perceptions of love. The narrative unfolds with tender moments and poignant revelations, painting a vivid picture of two souls entwined in an unconventional romance. What sets "Cherry" apart is its authentic portrayal of human connection and emotional depth. Through CrushReel's masterful storytelling, readers are invited to witness the evolution of Aaron and Linda's bond, rooting for their happiness amidst societal expectations. Discover the allure of "Cherry" and immerse yourself in a tale that transcends age barriers and embraces the power of love. Experience the enchanting world of "Cherry" available to read online at CrushReel.