Chapter 3

Our families lived next door to each other, so I usually had dinner at Victor's house before heading home.

As I walked past his porch, his mother, Mrs. Miller, was waiting at the door, wearing her apron and smiling warmly.

Seeing me alone, she looked surprised.

"Why are you so late today, sweetie? Did they make you work overtime?"

"That company is ridiculous. Whatever it is, it can wait till tomorrow."

"Wait, where is Victor? Did he get held up?"

I pulled my coat tighter around myself, forcing a smile. "A new colleague started today. Victor was asked to stay behind and show her the ropes."

"I won't be eating here tonight, Mrs. Miller. My mom already made dinner. See you later."

Before she could say anything, I blinked back my tears and ran across the lawn to my house.

"But I made slow-roasted beef ribs tonight! Your favorite!" Mrs. Miller called out, sounding disappointed. "At least have a few bites!"

But some invitations, once declined, can never be accepted again.