Chapter 5 Dariel's voice wasn't loud , but for a moment , it rang in my ears - sharp and jarring . All I wanted was to fight for one last chance for us , but it was clear he had no interest in trying . I lifted my head , forcing back the sting at the corners of my eyes . " All right . " Better to rip off the bandage quickly than drag out the pain . For the next month , I'd just focus on saying goodbye . That afternoon , Dariel and I went to the courthouse to file for divorce . While we waited in line , Dariel couldn't help but ask , " Didn't we agree to separate but not divorce ? Why the sudden change of heart ? " I answered quietly , " It's not right to keep dragging things out like this . " Dariel paused for a moment , then said , " ... You're right . " I glanced up at him , but his deep eyes were completely unreadable . When the divorce papers were finally in my hands , I realized that seven years of marriage had been reduced to nothing more than two flimsy sheets of paper . A couple walked past us , hand in hand , beaming with joy as they headed toward the marriage license window . Dariel and I , faces blank , brushed past them in silence . 0.07 % 10.523 Chapter 5 208 Vouchers A phrase floated through my mind . " Marriage is like a fortress besieged ; those outside want in , those inside want out . " But in our fortress , it was Dariel who wanted to leave first . Thinking about him heading off to chase his " new life , " I tried to sound casual as I asked , " Did you tell Elodie about us ? " Dariel shook his head . " I'm afraid she won't be able to handle it right now . I'll tell her later . " Seeing how serious he was , I finally understood . When you love someone , you're always cautious , always careful . When you don't , you can be honest and unafraid . Once we got in the car , Dariel asked , " So , what's your plan ? " Watching the scenery blur past the window , I felt a heaviness settle over me . " We've been married all these years , but never really traveled together . Let's take a trip . " " Where do you want to go ? " " Grand Canyon National Park . " They say everyone should visit the Grand Canyon with the one they love at least once in their life . Even though we were already divorced , I still wanted to fill that gap in my heart . But Dariel looked troubled . " Let's pick somewhere else . Elodie wants to go with me when the weather's better . " His words hit me like a slap from reality . Of course . That once - in - a - lifetime trip - he wanted to save it for the 27 % 10:52 Chapter 5 woman he truly loved , not for me , the " familiar stranger . " 258 Vouchers Dariel turned on the heater . " It's freezing out . Let's go to Miami instead . " Honestly , it didn't matter where we went . Our story was already written , and no destination could change the fact that I loved him , but he didn't love me . I nodded . " Let's let Lauren know . " Lauren was delighted when she heard we were taking a short trip . " You two go have fun . I'll take care of Marco , don't worry . Who knows , maybe Alexis will bring back some good news ... " Guilt gnawed at me . Lauren treated me like her own daughter , and yet Dariel and I were hiding the truth about our divorce from her ... Dariel didn't show much emotion . He booked our flights and hotel that very day . By noon the next day , we arrived at a beachfront hotel in Miami . As we checked in , I saw Dariel had only reserved one suite . I quickly asked the front desk , " Could you please book another room? " He seemed confused . " Why stay in separate rooms ? " I lowered my voice , " We're divorced . It's better this way . " Dariel hesitated , lips pressed tight , but didn't argue . After a bit of rest , I put on careful makeup and chose a bright red , form- fitting dress before heading out . Dariel stared at me for several seconds . " I hardly recognized you - you 53.59 % 10 520 Chapter 5 never dress like this . " I tucked a loose strand of hair behind my ear . " Well , I usually wear 218 Wouters business clothes . It's vacation , so I thought I'd dress up a little . Makes me feel better . " With that , I walked toward the beach outside the hotel . Dariel followed , still looking like he had something on his mind . " What is it ? " I asked . He looked at me . " Nothing . You just seem different today . " Just then , a vendor nearby called out , " Hey , you two ! Want to join our couples ' kissing contest ? Snap a photo of your kiss and win one of our limited - edition artisan woven bags ! " I glanced at the bag - beautiful , really - but this wasn't the kind of contest for Dariel and me . I was about , to walk away when Dariel suddenly pulled me into his arms , and before I could react , his cool lips pressed down on mine ! 97.054 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.