Chapter 3 That night , Kelly stayed in Carter's room . Emma understood that they were a couple , so it made sense for them to live together . Still , in the quiet darkness , as vague noises floated through the air , she found it hard to sleep . She lit a cigarette , watching the smoke swirl around her pale , delicate fingers before taking a long drag . It tasted sharp and bitter . The following morning , Emma descended the stairs with eyes puffy and red from crying . " Emma ! " Kelly exclaimed , guiding her to the couch , where faint red marks on Kelly's neck were just visible . " Carter's birthday is coming up , and I want to throw him a party . Any idea what theme he might like ? " Kelly's question caught Emma's attention , triggering a memory of a conversation she once had with Carter during a seaside stroll . She had mentioned how much she loved the sunlit , sparkling sea , the soothing sound of waves crashing on the shore , and walking hand in hand with her brother on the soft sand as the morning sun rose . On that day , Carter held Emma's hand as they strolled along the beach for what seemed like ages . " Emma , you love the ocean . From now on , we'll celebrate both our birthdays by the sea . Whatever you love is what I love . " A wave of bitterness rose in Emma's chest , making her pause before she 0.00 % 11 31 Chapter 3 could collect her thoughts again . " I ... " She began , but Carter walked over and cut her off . " If it's about me , you should ask me directly . " Kelly tugged on his arm playfully . " I figured Emma would get you better since she's a girl . Seems like even your sister doesn't know you that well Emma forced a smile , acknowledging the truth in that statement . " You two continue to chat . I have something to attend to and need to go first . " She swallowed the bitterness rising in her throat and turned to leave . Carter's eyes darkened as he questioned , " It's early in the morning . What could you possibly need to do ? " When Emma heard the cold , indifferent voice , her heart quivered . Did he still care about her plans ? Emma decided to be honest . " I have a visa appointment today . " The moment she said it , Kelly appeared surprised . " Are you planning a trip ? Going with friends or a boyfriend ? " Carter frowned at Emma , his voice laced with disapproval . " Emma , the SATS are over . Avoid getting involved with questionable individuals until you finish college . " His icy rebuke hit Emma like a thousand needles , leaving her too drained to offer any explanation . In the quiet moment , Kelly , always empathetic , attempted to case the tension . " It's natural for a young girl to experience love as she matures . 2941 % 11.3103 Chapter 3 Don't be too hard on her . " ZRB Tenu ber Then , she softly reassured Emma . " If there's someone you care about , love with courage . You only get to be 18 once . Ignore Carter's words . With that , Kelly leaves the house with Carter . 11 Emma watched them walk away , hand in hand , and clenched her fists tightly . At 18 , you only get one chance , and she had already dedicated hers to Carter . In two weeks , she would leave . She was determined not to let her youth be wasted in a desolate swamp any longer . Emma stepped outside . The sky was overcast , with a light drizzle falling . Despite it being summer , the rain's touch sent a shiver down her . On every previous rainy day , Carter would drive to pick her up himself . He used to say , " My little Emma shouldn't ever get caught in the rain . My arms are your shelter from the wind and rain . " However , now she had to adapt to walking by herself . Emma lowered her gaze and stepped out , clutching an umbrella . After completing the visa process , she was about to hail a taxi home when she noticed a notification from Carter's Instagram and instinctively clicked on it . Carter , known for updating just twice a year , shared a new post . " Rainy days are ideal for making official announcements . " The image showed Carter in a sharp tuxedo , holding Kelly , who wore a mermaid - style wedding dress . They were both smiling softly . The straightforward caption , alongside the wedding photo , struck Emma's tearful eyes . 50.00 % 11 : 310 Chapter 3 24 Vuchers The comment section overflowed with congratulations . Some people praised their perfect blend of talent and beauty , while others described it as a match made in heaven . Emma looked at it with a blank expression , noticing that the ache in her chest had subsided . She tapped on the screen and quietly typed in the comment section . " Wishing you happiness in marriage . " 91.58 % 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. 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