Chapter 11; Ghosted?

The next morning, I checked my phone as I usually do, but there were no messages from Ethan.

I felt a bit sad. It was strange because he usually sends a morning message. I wondered if something was wrong or if he was just busy. I had many questions in my mind as I got ready for the day.

Noah used to be like this with me before. He suddenly turned cold and stopped communicating, and I later found out he had someone else. I felt a sharp pain in my heart. I thought Ethan might be different, but I hope I'm wrong. Maybe Ethan is just busy and not ignoring me intentionally.

I tried to convince myself that there could be valid reasons for Ethan's silence. Maybe he had a busy day or some unexpected issues to deal with. But deep down, that nagging feeling of doubt lingered.

I immersed myself in studying, finding solace in the unfamiliar surroundings. I was on my own, without Ethan by my side. I set the book aside for a moment and contemplated the future of our relationship.

Regardless of what might happen between Ethan and me, I promised myself that I would continue pursuing my dreams and move forward, vowing not to let a repeat of what happened when Noah left me affect my life again.

I once again glanced at my cellphone, which was right beside me, and checked for any new messages, but I didn't see any.

"Tsssk, how dare him endure not seeing me or even getting a text," I muttered in frustration as I checked my phone again. "Go to hell," I said, irritated as I glanced at it once again , but there was still no message from my boyfriend.

Ahhhk, !!! I shouted.

I threw my phone on the floor.

No matter what I did, just couldn't concentrate on this review. I stood up and picked up my phone.

Shit!!!

I hoped there was no damage. Upon checking, thankfully, there was no visible damage, and it was still working fine.

I wasn't okay with everything that had happened, and even though my heart felt heavy, I returned to the study table and buried myself in the book once more.

"Ding dong," the doorbell rang. I put the book down and stood up to open the gate, thinking it must be my mom returning home. She stopped bringing keys with her since I was usually at home now.

When I opened the door, a smiling Ethan greeted me, and he had food with him.

When I saw him, I didn't say anything, and I didn't pay attention to him. I was upset with him for not reaching out all day, and now he's here, acting like it's no big deal, bringing food as if nothing happened.

"Beb, I'm really sorry I didn't call you. My family had a big problem today," he explained, sounding regretful.

I stayed quiet, my anger still there.

"Please, are you mad?" he asked, sounding sad.

Tears welled up in my eyes as frustration and hurt coursed through me like a tidal wave. "It's not just about today," I retorted, my voice trembling with emotion. "You can't just disappear all day and then expect a casual apology without acknowledging how much you've hurt me."

Ethan let out a deep sigh, showing he knew he messed up. "Beb," he said, sounding really sorry, "I messed up big time. I should've told you about my family's problem earlier. I understand why you're mad."

I stayed quiet for a while, still upset. "It's not just today, Ethan," I said, my voice shaky. "It's the whole day of not hearing from you. It felt like you forgot about me."

Ethan nodded, looking truly sorry. "You're right. I messed up there, too. I promise, I'll do better at keeping in touch."

I sighed, starting to feel a bit better. "I just wish you'd told me about your family issue. I would've been there for you."

Ethan nodded again. "I should've leaned on you. I was trying to handle it alone, but I see that was a mistake."

Tears welled up in my eyes as I tried to explain. "I felt left behind and hurt, Ethan. It's tough for me when you're not there."

Ethan reached out to hold my hand, looking really regretful. "I'm so sorry, Beb. I promise to be there for you from now on."

That evening at Ethan's house during dinner. My mom had grown close to him and often talked. However, sometimes I observed that Ethan would divert the conversation away from his family or personal matters. It made me wonder if he and his family weren't on good terms, and he preferred not to discuss it.

"Beb, tomorrow is your architecture exam, and I'm sure you'll pass," he said, sounding encouraging.

"Yeah, beb, good luck to me," I replied.

"Yes, you can do it, beb," he added with enthusiasm.

"By the way," he continued, "I won't be able to come here tomorrow. I'll join you after your exam, and we'll celebrate," he explained.

"Sure, as long as we don't keep secrets from each other, beb. Let's be open," I told him, emphasizing the importance of honesty in our relationship.

After Ethan left, I went to my room with a big smile. It was like my heart went from feeling heavy to flying high with happiness and love

Then, my phone beeped, showing a new text message.

[ Hello, Miss Marquez. This is the Marikina Police Station. We've been informed about the man you mentioned at the bar. We'd like to invite you to come to the station and file a formal complaint. Your cooperation is essential in our investigation, and we're here to assist you in every way possible. Please feel free to contact us for any further information or assistance you may need.]

After several months, my complaint is only moving forward now. And who in their right mind goes to the station late at night?!" I muttered angrily to myself as I slammed my phone onto the table and lay down.

"I've moved on, and whoever you are, I don't care anymore," I added, a sense of frustration in my voice.