Chapter 7 Dariel was the first to react , grabbing his phone and heading straight into the bathroom . I sat up , rubbing my hair wearily . For a moment , I felt like I'd just been caught as the other woman , the one destroying someone else's relationship ... The thought left me feeling both miserable and absurd . It was nearly half an hour before Dariel finally came out . His expression was calm - he must have managed to soothe Elodie . I took the initiative . " You should book the earliest flight home tomorrow . Dariel frowned . " No. I promised I'd spend this month with you , and I keep my word . " He paused , then his tone shifted . " Alexis , let's retake our wedding photos . Last time , we did it too haphazardly . " I was stunned , about to ask more , but Dariel just lay back down on the bed . Night deepened . Dariel slept soundly , but I was wide awake , restless . In the darkness , I inched farther and farther away from the man beside me , only stopping when there was enough space between us . I turned my head , gazing at the outline of Dariel's profile , my heart heavy 10.52 1 288 Vouchers Chapter 7 with longing . Rose fell in love with a penniless artist , Jack . My love was just an ordinary man . The only thing Rose and I had in common was that we both guessed how the story would begin , but never saw the ending coming . Unbidden , silent tears slipped from the corners of my eyes . I didn't bother to wipe them away . At least they proved I had truly loved this man . Early the next morning , Dariel took me to a bridal boutique . I frowned immediately . " You're serious about this ? " Dariel smiled . " I couldn't be more serious . Even if our seven years of marriage were just a dream , let's make it a beautiful one - no regrets . " His words made my heart sink a little . I looked at the dazzling array of wedding dresses in front of me , my mind swirling with memories . Seven years ago , we'd rushed through our first set of wedding photos . Now , after our divorce , we were back , taking them seriously this time . After all the twists and turns , it felt like we'd come full circle - except our hearts were in a completely different place . Back then , I didn't love him and felt light as air . Now , I loved him , but couldn't have him , so all I could do was let go . " It's not every day you do this - let's try a few different styles , " Dariel suggested enthusiastically . 22.15 % Chapter 7 " No need . Just one set is fine . " I pointed at a white mermaid gown . Dariel studied it for a moment , then said , " Today , let me decide . " Unlike seven years ago , this time he wasn't going through the motions . 283 Vouchers He didn't need any direction from the photographer - he naturally wrapped his arm around my waist , even reminding me to smile more . " " Alexis , come closer . If you stand that far away , the photos won't look good . " As I changed outfits , the makeup artist sighed , " Your husband really loves you . You must have a very happy marriage . " Her words made my heart ache . I used to think I was happy , but ever since I realized I loved Dariel , happiness had been mixed with anxiety and heartache . Loving someone really can be so painful . I pressed my lips together . " You're mistaken . She shook her head . " You can't hide love in your eyes . " I lowered my head and smiled , choosing not to argue . She only thought that because she'd never seen the way Dariel's eyes lit up when he looked at Elodie . After we finished the last set - wearing classic wedding attire - I just wanted to get out of there , but Dariel insisted on carefully picking out the best photos . 10:52 285 Vouchers Chapter 7 " If you're tired , go rest . I'll choose the ones for retouching . " I couldn't say what I felt - something between absurdity and numbness . It wasn't until I'd wiped off my makeup and saw my bare face in the mirror that I finally let out a long , shaky breath . Just then , an unfamiliar number called . When I answered , I realized it was Elodie . " Alexis , this is Elodie . Sorry to bother you ... Dariel explained everything about last night , but I still wanted to hear your side . " I glanced at Dariel by the computer , then stepped outside before speaking . " Don't worry . My marriage to Dariel was just a contract - there were no feelings involved . We're already divorced . " Elodie was silent for a long time . When she finally spoke , her voice held neither relief nor happiness . " All right . Sorry to trouble you . " She hung up quickly , leaving me a little bewildered . But as a woman , I could sense her disappointment in those few words . " Who was that ? " Dariel walked out . I almost blurted out it was Elodie , but instead I said , " A coworker . " Dariel didn't press , instead turning to our travel plans . " Let's go to Georgia in a couple of days . I remember how much you love Savannah . " I murmured my agreement and followed him out , quietly changing my flight destination on my phone . 72.41 % 30528 Chapter 7 I knew then - it was time to end this trip early . 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.