The Day Ethan Got Married Chapter 2

Surprisingly, I could still see Ethan. The woman was still in his arms.

Instinctively, I moved forward, wanting to pull his hands away from her.

But I failed.

I couldn't touch him at all.

I realized with painful clarity that I was dead.

For some reason, I found myself drifting to Ethan's side anyway.

"Bro, does she know you got married today?"

I recognized the speaker—one of Ethan's circle. He'd mocked me plenty when Ethan wasn't around.

While the woman went to chat with friends, he sidled up quietly.

"Why bring that up? Jules knows her place. She knows I'd never marry her. She's easy to keep happy, but I can't tell her about this yet. All of you—keep your mouths shut. When it's time to tell her, you won't need to remind me."

Then he pulled out his phone and messaged me.

"Coming back soon. Did you miss me?"

"They have amazing pastries here. If you're good, I'll bring some back for you."

How thoughtful of him—two faces, one for show and one behind closed doors. Why bother putting on this act for me, Mr. CEO?

If he'd just told me straight, there was nothing I could have done anyway.

I was just an orphan, raised in foster care. No family to rely on, no power to speak of.

I'd met Ethan at a coffee shop.

The shop owner was a good friend of his, so he'd drop by regularly.

Back then, he seemed unhappy every single day.

I didn't know why, but following the golden rule of customer service, I'd bring him a dessert each day.

Usually, he wouldn't eat it.

But gradually, less and less was left on his plate each day.

We developed a rhythm.

He'd sit alone by the window working, or stare at the potted plant on the table, or watch me.

When I looked back, he'd smile softly and signal for me to rest while the boss was out.

We spent over half a year like that.

After senior year started, my coursework got too demanding.

I had to quit the coffee shop and focus on my studies.

For someone like me—no connections, no influence—college entrance exams were probably the only fair shot I'd ever get.

Back then, I never imagined I'd see Ethan Mitchell again, much less that he'd confess his feelings to me someday.