Chapter 4 288 Voun bers Dariel spun around suddenly , his eyes wide with surprise . I clenched my hands so tightly , I could feel my heart pounding against my chest , threatening to burst free . But he quickly regained his usual composure , ruffling my hair with a helpless little laugh . " Come on , don't talk about love and all that . We've known each other for so many years - if we were going to fall in love , it would've happened by now . Don't joke around like that . " His words made my heart sink , though I also felt a faint sense of relief . At least he didn't outright deny or reject me on the spot . He let me keep a shred of dignity . " Go get ready for bed . We both have work tomorrow , " he urged gently . I nodded and pressed down the heaviness in my chest as I walked into the bathroom . By the time we finally got to bed , it was almost three in the morning . I've always been sensitive to the cold - even with a thick comforter , the chill seemed to seep right into my bones . Dariel was different . He was like a human furnace . I used to curl up in his arms the moment I got into bed . But tonight , I didn't dare reach for that warmth that was so close , yet suddenly so distant . 0.00 % 10.520 Chapter 4 I curled up into a ball , letting the cold sweep over me . " Come closer , " Dariel's lazy voice sounded from behind me . I gripped the edge of the blanket and said nothing . To my surprise , he reached out , wrapped an arm around my waist , and pulled me into his embrace . 298 Vouchers That sun - like warmth enveloped me instantly , but I instinctively tried to push him away . " We're not- " " Nothing's changed . We're just like we've always been . Relax , I'm just keeping you warm . I won't cross any lines . " Dariel was a true gentleman - even his hugs were entirely innocent . But we were husband and wife . Even if there was something more , it would be perfectly normal . How did things get so awkward that even a simple embrace felt so complicated ? In that moment , I found it all painfully ironic . His arms used to be my safe haven , but now , the warmer his embrace , the colder my heart felt . No matter how good , how warm , soon , he wouldn't be mine anymore . Eventually , Dariel drifted off to sleep , but I lay awake until dawn , exhausted . When I finally opened my eyes , sunlight was streaming through the window . Dariel was already gone . On the dining table , as always , was a beautifully prepared breakfast . 10.52 Chapter 4 A sticky note read , " Don't forget to eat breakfast . No skipping meals before work . " 2918 Weichers I stared at his familiar handwriting , a storm of emotions swirling inside me . If only Dariel hadn't been so thoughtful , maybe I'd be able to muster up some resentment toward him ... Just then , my phone rang . It was my mom . When I answered , her gentle voice came through the line . " Alexis , Lauren called me yesterday . She said Marco's sick . How is he now ? " I glanced out the window . Back in Singapore , it must've been the middle of the night for her . " He's stable for now . Mom , you're not feeling well yourself - get some rest , okay ? " " It's been so long since we talked . I just want to hear your voice for a while . " Her words made my eyes sting with sudden tears . I didn't have many friends . Other than Mom , there was really no one I could confide in . So I told her everything - laid bare all my feelings for Dariel . " Mom , I realized I've fallen for Dariel . But he ... he doesn't love me . She was quiet for a long time before letting out a heavy sigh . " I noticed a long time ago that the way you looked at him had changed . If 4000 % 10 520 Chapter 4 you don't want to give up on this love , then be brave . Try to win him back . No matter what happens , at least you won't regret it . " 1288 Wouchers She paused , then spoke again , her voice full of gentle wisdom . " But remember , never stand on tiptoe to love someone . If you're off balance , you won't last long . " I lowered my eyes . " I understand . " After we hung up , I sat quietly , my heart in turmoil . Mom's words echoed in my mind , mingling with all my memories of Dariel , until gradually , my tangled thoughts began to clear . I couldn't keep drifting along like this with Dariel . If I loved him , I should love him wholeheartedly . If not , I should let go . " Separated but not divorced " was just lying to myself . was But I couldn't force Dariel , either . All I could do was give us both a choice . With my mind made up , I dialed Dariel's number . After a few rings , his clear voice came through . " What's up ? " I took a deep breath . " Dariel , if you want to find your true love , I won't stand in your way . But can we at least give ourselves a chance ? " " What do you mean ? " I looked up at our wedding photo on the wall . Two young faces , smiling brightly at the camera , completely unaware of the choices the future would demand of them . " Either we go and file for divorce this afternoon , or you take a month off 67 83 % 10 52 Chapter 4 288 Vouchers and stay home with me - let's see if our life together is really so empty and unbearable that we have to split up . " On the other end , Dariel was silent for so long I thought time itself had stopped . Just as my patience was about to run out , he finally answered . " We'll get divorced this afternoon . But as compensation , I'll stay with you for a month . " . 92.04 % Title: A Boyfriend on Loan, A Real Love on Way Author: CrushReels Genre: Romance, Modern Status: ongoing In "A Boyfriend on Loan, A Real Love on Way" by CrushReels, Felix Lloyd finds himself in a predicament as he seeks to pacify his family's marriage expectations by renting a girlfriend for the holiday season. However, a serendipitous airport mishap leads Kendal Scott, the wrong woman, into his life. As Felix and Kendal navigate this unexpected twist of fate, the novel delves into themes of familial pressure, mistaken identities, and the complexities of modern relationships. CrushReels intricately weaves together elements of romance and contemporary dilemmas to create a compelling narrative that resonates with readers seeking a blend of heartwarming moments and unforeseen connections. What sets "A Boyfriend on Loan, A Real Love on Way" apart is its ability to balance light-hearted humor with poignant insights into the intricacies of human emotions. With its engaging storyline and relatable characters, this ongoing romance promises a captivating read for fans of modern love stories. Experience the unfolding tale of Felix and Kendal at CrushReels and immerse yourself in a world where love finds its way through unexpected avenues. Read online at CrushReels today to discover the enchanting journey awaiting within these digital pages.