Chapter 39 After our breakup , his social media updates became more frequent , almost as if he was trying to send a message . One day he posted about having a cold , but no medicine ; the next day , he travelled alone with one of my favourite records in the background of the ?? photo , followed by an update about buying flowers for the balcony , all of which I had ce dreamed of I couldn't help but wonder if these updates were meant for me , but I refused to engage anymore . Like Leo , I learned to love myself more . Soon enough , it was the day of the interview that I had agreed to with Rolin . When I arrived at the piano shop he ran , he greeted me warmly an introduced me to the other employees , who all looked at me curiously . One clerk asked , " Do you have honours from international competitions , or educational experience ? " I hesitated , then admitted , " No , I don't . " The certificate of honour from the International Competition , I actually have it , but that was an honour that was earned a long time ago . I don't want to tell anyone about it until I've fully recovered to my peak level . As for educational experience , I really don't have any . The clerk sneered , " All the teachers here have extensive resumes . They weren't just introduced by the boss's connections . " It made me feel inferior , but that's when Rolin's hand was placed on my shoulder , encouraging me to prove it in action . " Elizabeth , " he said softly , " why don't you show them what you can do ? " There was a grand piano in the middle of the hall , and I sat at it and played a piece that mesmerized everyone with its technique and the emotion that flowed from it . The notes danced under my fingers , weaving a tapestry of sound that spoke of longing , love , and loss . I played with a passion that came from the depths of my soul , each note a testament to the years of dedication and sacrifice . As the final note faded , everyone was immersed in the afterglow of the music . At this point , someone on the first floor led the applause , without knowing who started it , others just followed suit With pride and excitement written all over his face , Rolin announced in front of the crowd, " Ladies and gentlemen , please welcome our newest instructor , Elizabeth . Her talent speaks for itself . " wingement merel I breathed a sigh of relief , my hands still shaking and tingling a little from nerves . The clerk who had just questioned me came up to me and apologized , stating , " You were incredible . " I apologize for my earlier skepticism . It's an honor to work with you . I smiled from the bottom of my heart and shook his hand to show that I didn't mind what he had just questioned . Rolin took me to check in . He smiled and asked , " Did you know who the first person to applaud on the first floor was ? " After I shook my head , he told me , " That was Orlando Martin . " I froze , feeling shocked . Orlando Martin is undoubtedly the world's most famous piano maestro , a titan in the music world . Everyone who plays the piano has played his tunes , and he was my idol from childhood to adulthood . Rolin smiled and told me , " You must have just got his approval . That's a big thing , Elizabeth , Maybe you guys can meet sometime . " Just as I was feeling excited , my phone rang and the caller ID was Leo . Chapter 39 Where once I would always be overwhelmed when I heard Leo's voice . But now I was much calmer than before , with more of a subconscious pain coming from my heart . " Elizabeth , " his voice was low and familiar , " are you free the evening after tomorrow ? I'd like you to attend a party with me . I was silent for a moment , caught.between old memories and new beginnings . " Why do you want me to come , Leo ? " I finally asked . " I just … I need you there , " he replied , his tone softer . " Please . " Deep down I knew his softness only meant that he wanted me to fulfill my duties as a Luna not as his love figure . There was a time when I would have dropped everything for him , but now things were different . I had my own path to forge . In "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die" by CrushReel, Zoe Hale takes a daring step by marrying Ashton Cross, a man under suspicion for her sister's mysterious demise. As their relationship evolves, hidden truths unravel, intertwining love and suspense in this captivating romance novel. Exploring the complexities of loyalty and deception, the story delves deep into Zoe's quest for justice while navigating the unexpected twists of her heart. The enigmatic bond between Zoe and Ashton unfolds against a backdrop of secrets and revelations, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with each turn of the page. Set in a blend of romance and drama, "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die" stands out for its intricate character dynamics and the seamless fusion of passion and intrigue. With every chapter, CrushReel skillfully crafts a narrative that immerses readers in a world where love confronts darkness, leaving them yearning for more. Discover the enthralling saga of Zoe and Ashton, available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in this unique tale that defies conventions and promises an unforgettable literary experience.