Chapter 38

VALERIAN

Valerian stirred awake, the day’s agenda already on his mind. He had to go to work, but there was something else, something more important.

He was planning to surprise Hailey. He had realized that he wanted her in his life, forever. So, he decided to tell her he loved her.

And he was going to propose.

Nervousness fluttered in his stomach. He had sneakily measured her ring size when she was unwell. He got ready for work, but something felt off as he arrived.

His colleagues greeted him as usual. He was tempted to swing by Hailey’s desk, but he decided against it. He would see her later in the afternoon.

The day seemed to crawl by, and finally, it was time to head home.

He collected the books from Clara, quickly flipping through them. He noticed Hailey’s work, which she usually purchased herself. As he leafed through it, a letter slipped out.

He unfolded it.

“My Dear Valerian:

I hope this letter finds you.

Life has been tough for me. Please don’t blame yourself, I’ve given this a lot of thought. I enjoyed our time together, and I wish you all the best.

I don’t belong here, and my worst fears have come true. Please forget me.

By the time you read this, I’ll be gone. I’ve left my resignation letter with Matt. He’ll give it to you.

Please don’t try to find me. I don’t want to be found.

Goodbye, and live a happy life.

Yours, Hailey.”

The letter crumpled in his grip.

Valerian rushed to Matt, finding him waiting outside. “Where’s Hailey?”

“I was hoping you’d know. She left me two letters, one of them is her resignation for you.”

“You have no clue where she might be?”

“No, Valerian, I don’t! I last saw her yesterday, she mentioned having a tough day at work. What happened?”

“I wasn’t at work!”

Valerian pulled out his phone and called Clara. She picked up instantly. “Good evening, sir.”

“What the hell happened to Hailey yesterday when I wasn’t there?”

Clara relayed the events involving Charlize and Hailey. He immediately drove to Charlize’s place.

“Valerian, I wasn’t expecting you.”

“Charlize, back off. If I find out you’ve been bothering Hailey or sending people to her place, you’ll regret it!”

Tears welled up in her eyes. “Are you just going to forget our three years together for that woman!”

“Don’t you dare call her that, Charlize. I love her, and it’s high time you moved on!”

His words seemed to shatter her. He turned away and got into his car.

He tried calling Hailey, but there was no answer.

Valerian then drove to her apartment. The door was locked, but he managed to break it down.

The apartment was empty. He noticed the flowers he had given her, now wilted, and a note next to them.

“Nothing lasts. Flowers only die.”

^End of Book One^