Chapter 5 Recently , Emma spent her entire day shut away in her room , from dawn to dusk . Carter would take Kelly out early and wouldn't return until late , sometimes not even coming home overnight . It appeared their lives had already drifted apart before they even realized it . Sunday was the 10th day before she was set to leave . It was also the day Emma had planned to reunite with her high school classmates for a gathering . The moment Emma stepped into the private room at Whiskey Tavern , a few close classmates offered her a glass of wine . " You're 18 now . Time to say goodbye to our youth - you can finally have your first legal drink . " Emma hesitated for a moment . It's said that wine can soothe countless worries , and she wanted to unwind too . Besides , a full glass was filled with the emotions of departure . This glass would serve as a farewell toast between her and her classmates . After finishing a glass , Emma felt slightly dizzy . Seeking fresh air , she headed to the corridor and unintentionally glimpsed Carter in an open private room , surrounded by a group of men and Women . 0.00 % 11310 Chapter 5 Her heart raced , and she quickly averted her gaze , but the conversation from inside the room made her pause . 298 Vouchers " Carter , you're on the brink of getting engaged to Kelly . What's your plan for Emma , who's been trailing you across the globe ? " " She's grown up now . I won't be responsible for her anymore . " The recognizable voice reached Emma's ears , shaking off some of the alcohol's effects . She dropped her gaze and paused at the door for a moment . After a while , she quietly whispered to herself and kept walking . " Yes , I'm an adult now , mature . From now on , you won't be part of my life anymore . " She paused by the window in the hallway to feel the breeze on her face , then headed to the restroom to splash cold water on her face . As she exited , she bumped into Carter , who appeared slightly tipsy . Their eyes locked , and just as Emma was about to say something , Kelly's voice chimed in from behind . " Carter , " she said playfully , before flinging herself into Carter's embrace . " You've had too much to drink . You're hardly able to stand straight . " Carter kissed her forehead affectionately . " Then I'll carry you , " he replied , and with that , he scooped Kelly up his arms like a princess and walked away , oblivious to anyone else . into As Emma watched them share a close embrace , she stood frozen in place for a while . " Emma , why are you crying ? " Her classmate , Sally Harlan's voice snapped her back to reality . 23-71 % 11-310 Chapter 5 Vouchers Emma hesitated briefly before managing a weak smile . " It's just an eyelash in my eye , nothing more . I'm okay . " Sally nodded and gestured toward where Carter had gone . " That's your brother , right ? He actually has a girlfriend . He used to care for you so much - we all thought he'd never date and would always be by your side . " When Emma heard this , a slight bitterness arose within her . " He and I have separate lives ; we aren't destined to be together forever . " Sally's expression carried a hint of regret at Emma's statement . " We used to believe he was your boyfriend . You two seemed like such a great match . It's a shame he's your brother ... " Emma's heart was weighed down and sorrowful . She used to feel similar sympathy , but now she believed that the connections between individuals were destined , interwoven in the invisible strands of destiny . Back then , she and Carter were siblings . Going forward , they would be strangers . The class reunion wrapped up at one in the morning . After bidding farewell to her classmates , Emma stepped outside and noticed Carter and Kelly by the revolving door , seemingly waiting for her intentionally . " You've just turned into an adult , and you're already staying out past midnight ? You're getting increasingly careless ! What if something happens to you ? " His scolding words pierced Emma like needles , leaving her immobilized and uncertain about how to respond . Kelly cast a disapproving look at Carter . " Emma's under your care now , and soon her boyfriend will be looking out for her . What could possibly go wrong ? " 49 84 % 11.31 Chapter 5 " Come on , let's head home , " she said , grabbing the man's hand and leading the way out , motioning for Emma to come along . Emma kept her gaze down and followed them . She didn't notice the gentle rain falling until they were outside . 248 bucheres Carter opened an umbrella , wrapped his arm around Kelly , and moved ahead without glancing back . The big umbrella leaned to the right , keeping Kelly dry from the rain , while his own shirt was drenched with water . Emma watched in a trance , suddenly remembering how , when Carter held an umbrella for her , he always angled it her way . He had once told her , " Emma is a rose I've nurtured . Roses shouldn't get wet . I'll always keep you safe . " A strong wind swept through , causing angled raindrops to spatter on Emma's white dress , sending a shiver down her . Emma snapped back to reality and gradually stepped into the rain by herself . Roses might wilt in the rain , but I wanted to be my own sunflower- always shining , always glowing . 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.