Chapter 9 Are You Cheating on Me?

Dafa's words still echoed in Alayna's mind like ripples of water that slowly filled her mind. She reflected on all that had happened and digested how complex the world she was facing was.

Maybe it's true, Alayna had to compromise because she had to go through her five-year contract marriage. The weight of it all pressed upon her shoulders, a burden she couldn't shake off. Yet, she knew deep down that this was the reality she had to confront.

"Thank you for everything, Dafa. Your guidance has been invaluable today. Well, not just today, but throughout my time here," Alayna expressed, sincerity lacing her voice, while her eyes shimmered with profound gratitude.

Dafa's lips curved into a warm smile. "No problem, that's what friends are for, right?"

"Yes," Alayna nodded, acknowledging the truth in Dafa's words. "Aren't you supposed to be at work?"

"I am, but only after making sure you're alright."

"I often see you so composed and effortlessly handling everything at work."

"That's the nature of my job as a journalist. I could be anywhere, doing anything."

"Actually, now that I think about it, it's just like you're an exceptional and special employee here."

"As long as I hold a special place in your heart, I'm content."

Alayna's laughter filled the air, drawing Dafa's gaze back to her beautiful face. However, his attention soon shifted to a scar adorning Alayna's neck.

Realizing that Dafa was watching her, Alayna quickly covered her neck with her scarf. Dafa's eyes were sharp and fast, tracing Alayna's movements, instinctively noting the reflexive adjustment she made to the scarf.

Alayna felt a mix of confusion and unease under Dafa's intense gaze. Her discomfort mirrored in Dafa's eyes, triggering a swirl of emotions within him.

However, as Dafa abruptly lowered his head, the atmosphere around them shifted with lightning speed. Alayna couldn't help but notice that Dafa appeared to be concealing something, perhaps a thought or emotion too profound to articulate.

"Alright," Dafa raised his head again, determination etched on his face. "It's time for me to dive into work. But remember, if you need anything else, don't hesitate to reach out."

A warm smile graced Alayna's lips. "Thank you, Dafa. You're the best."

Dafa's gaze brimmed with affection. "And you, Alayna, are absolutely remarkable. We complement each other, like two puzzle pieces destined to fit together."

Alayna felt her heart swell with gratitude at Dafa's words. There was a sense of solace in conversing with a close friend like Dafa. It lightened her spirit, even though the challenges she faced were far from over.

With a final smile, Dafa departed, leaving Alayna alone on the rooftop. She pondered for a moment, contemplating her next move.

"It's time to love myself!" Alayna declared fervently. "I need my best friends now."

Returning to her office, Alayna retrieved her car keys and handbag. She got into her car and weaved through the bustling city streets.

A few minutes later, Alayna arrived at an unassuming yet aesthetically pleasing building adorned with natural decorations. Carrying a stack of novels from the backseat, she stepped into the quaint, welcoming café nestled on the street corner, her steps brimming with enthusiasm.

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air, enveloping the space in a cozy and intimate ambiance. Alayna ordered a cappuccino and settled into a corner seat by the window, gazing out at the bustling street.

The kind waitress placed the cappuccino gently next to the stack of novels on the table. Alayna's two ultimate companions, cappuccino and books, sat before her. Without hesitation, she immersed herself in their world, flipping through the pages while savoring the rich coffee flavor.

As the sun ascended higher in the sky, Alayna bid farewell to the cozy café and stepped onto the vibrant, colorful sidewalk. She ventured into unfamiliar city streets, an urban labyrinth waiting to be explored. Towering buildings and glistening glass windows reflected the sunlight, painting breathtaking panoramas.

Arriving at a large city park, Alayna stopped for a moment to enjoy the beauty of nature that blends with the hustle and bustle of the city. She took off her shoes and felt the soft grass under her feet. Fresh air caressed her cheeks, reminding her of the freedom and potential that lay before her.

Nestled under the shade of towering trees, Alayna opened her cherished journal and began to write. She put her thoughts into words, recording her feelings, hopes, and dreams. The black ink on the white page bear witnessed her decision.

Time slipped away unnoticed, and before she knew it, evening had descended upon the city. Alayna made her way home, specifically to Lev Halton's house.

As Alayna's footsteps crossed the threshold, a wave of warm air enveloped her, tugging at her heartstrings. There, in the heart of the living room, sat Lev, his gaze fixed upon the entrance as if he had been eagerly awaiting Alayna's return for an eternity.

Upon removing her coat, Alayna finally heard Lev's gentle voice penetrate her ears. "Why are you late returning home?" he inquired, curiosity lacing his words.

That short sentence sounded like a gentle ripple, yet contained a deep ocean of emotion. His gaze was like a barren desert, harboring something he was hiding.

Alayna glanced briefly at her wrist, which was decorated with a clock, and the hands pointed at six. "It's not too late," she muttered under her breath, her voice flowing like a calm river.

But Lev didn't just let it go. With slow movements, he stood up and his footsteps drew closer to Alayna. "You're married, Alayna."

"So?" Alayna muttered, but her voice reflected a hint of resistance that couldn't be ignored.

Lev's breath sounded panting as if struggling to hold back the wave of emotions that wanted to explode. "You can't be close to other men. It will ruin my reputation."

"I'm not close to any man," Alayna said, but this time her voice was fragile, as if trying to calm the storm that was getting stronger.

Lev shook his head, his hair wild with the movement. "Don't lie. I saw you with that reporter on the rooftop. Is he your boyfriend? Are you cheating on me?" His sentence sounded like a bolt of lightning in a rainstorm, striking Alayna's heart sharply.