Chapter 38

That night, I slept soundly until a noise outside jolted me awake. It wasn’t Hayden speaking, but a woman with a local accent. Her voice, judging by the sound, belonged to someone older; younger women tend to have softer, clearer voices.

I have a knack for recognizing people by their voices, yet I couldn't fathom that the man I'd loved for ten years was such a jerk. They say you only truly forget someone when you stop thinking about them constantly. Clearly, I wasn't there yet. I still found myself thinking about Jace, even if it wasn't love anymore, it was resentment. I couldn't help but think of him occasionally.

I remained in bed, straining to hear the conversation outside.

“Macy, where’s Hayden?” the woman asked.

“He left early this morning,” Macy replied, the sound of running water audible in the background.

“He left, huh? I thought he was still asleep,” the woman chuckled lightly.

“Molly, why do you care if Hayden’s up or not? He doesn’t like you, so stop wasting your time,” Macy retorted bluntly.

Most people couldn’t handle such bluntness, but Molly, standing outside the door, didn’t flinch. She chuckled. “What do you know? Guys like the chase.”

I snickered. Molly seemed quite confident.

“Well, all I know is that he tossed you out like yesterday’s trash,” Macy’s sharp tongue continued its assault.

“Ugh, what do you even know, you old hag?” Molly shot back, clearly annoyed.

“I know about self-respect and dignity,” Macy replied, earning my silent cheers.

“We’re neighbors. I’ve helped you a lot. If you can’t help me, at least don’t make things worse,” Molly attempted a guilt trip.

Macy wasn't swayed. “Yeah, you’ve helped, but not out of kindness. You just wanted to see Hayden… more.”

“Haha…” I stifled a laugh under the covers. Macy’s sharp wit was admirable.

“Alright, enough of that. I heard you took in a pretty girl?” Molly asked, her curiosity piqued.

“Yeah, she’s got smooth, soft skin. Most importantly, she’s single and hasn’t married before. Even I find her delightful.”

Macy’s praise made me instinctively touch my skin. Indeed, it was smooth and soft.

“Is that so? I’d like to see her. Where is she?” As Molly spoke, I sat up.

It seemed she was here because she worried I might steal Hayden’s attention.

I slipped my feet, polished toenails and all, into my slippers. My silk nightgown was a creamy color, with straps so thin they seemed ready to snap. Combined with my freshly awakened, tousled hair, I exuded a sultry charm.

I opened the door, yawning as I stepped out. “Macy, your place has the worst soundproofing. I get woken up every day.”

As I said this, Molly was already staring at me, her eyes wide with surprise and envy, then jealousy and admiration.

Macy glanced at me. “Not much I can do. It’s a small place. I’ll close the door next time to keep out any unwanted guests.”

I chuckled. “Thanks.”

I reached for my toothbrush and toothpaste on the sink rack. Next to mine was a military green toothbrush holder—definitely Hayden’s. Mine was pink, his was green. His was bigger, mine was smaller. They actually looked quite cute together.