Men together could be so unguarded.
Eventually, Charlieâs craving for a cigarette led him outside.
By chance, Cecilia was there too, stunning in a dress adorned with pearls, her black hair cascading down her back.
Intent on flirtation, Charlie stopped short upon recognizing her.
Quick to recover, he grinned.
âCecilia, good to see you! Some friends of mine are here.
Care to join us?â
Unsuspecting, Cecilia agreed, out of respect for the past.
Charlieâs charm was persuasive, his banter keeping her entertained as they walked.
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Her lips curved into a slight smile.
Keen on surprising her, Charlie playfully teased as he opened the door.
âGuess whoâs inside? Isnât it your dear Uncle Mark that youâve missed so much?â
Cecilia almost chided Charlie.
But retreating would seem petty.
As the door opened, the room buzzed with energy.
Mark was in the midst of a game, Flora leaning close, whispering something.
His smile was carefree, almost roguish.
Cecilia took it all in at a glance, and then turned to leave.
Charlie was frantic, spilling apologies.
âCecilia! No, wait! Oh, damn it, Cecilia, youâve got it all wrong about Mark.
Heâs so reserved now; he doesnât even hang out with women.
He doesnât have the energy for dalliances.
â
His voice boomed, catching everyoneâs attention.
Cecilia quickened her pace, thinking that Mark was nothing but a libertine.
It didnât matter who he was with.
She believed it didnât concern her.
She didnât want to even spare him a glance.
Yet, despite her resolve, her eyes welled up involuntarily.
Mark had pursued her relentlessly, had been intimate with her recently, and had even berated her for going on a blind date.