13.0 % Chapter 12 Chapter 12 The celebration was intimate just family and close friends from high school . Still , the grand ballroom felt overwhelming . Everyones eyes widened when they saw me there , like theyd seen a ghost . I could almost hear their thoughts : Whats she doing here after everything ? I just smiled politely and made small talk , playing dumb . But you couldnt miss their not so subtle glances , the whispered conversations that stopped when I walked by . Four years of high school had taught me exactly what gossip looked like . Needing to escape , I stepped onto the terrace for fresh air . Thats when I heard voices from around the corner where his friends had cornered him by the service entrance . Seriously ? I thought she was done with you after the whole Madison thing at the party . Now shes crawling back ? Aidens laugh was cold , entitled a sound Id never heard from him before . Shes just being dramatic . Give her a few days you really think shed walk away after all these years ? She doesnt know how to exist without me . I dont know , man , his friend said . Brooklyns pretty great . All those years together , the way shed drop everything for you … most guys would kill for a girl like that . Yeah , childhood sweetheart versus dream girl thats rough . Whats your game plan ? Aiden was quiet for a moment . When he spoke , his voice was calculated . Look , Brooklyns great , sure. Sweet girl , totally devoted . But it feels like settling , you know ? Im eighteen who wants to be tied down to their high school girlfriend forever ? Thats such a cliché . I want to experience college life , meet new people … besides , he laughed , shell always be there waiting , keeping the light on like a good little girlfriend . His friend went quiet . Finally punched his arm . Youre such an asshole . I couldnt stomach another word . I slipped away silently , my designer sneakers soundless on the marble floor . The evening air hit my face as I rounded the corner , and I finally let the tears fall . Six years of memories played through my mind like a highlight reel of my own stupidity . Every shared secret , every late night call , every Ill always be there for you all just convenient lies from someone who saw me as a backup plan . Seven Years of Love , Seven Minutes of Traih 13.3 % Chapter 12 I leaned against the balcony railing , watching the city lights blur through my tears , hating myself for being so blind for so long . For believing that the boy next door routine meant something real . For thinking that growing up together meant growing old together . Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!