Chapter 3
Jenson's gaze lingered on the cleared dresser. Estella swallowed her refusal. She wanted to leave quietly, avoiding complications. So, she said evenly, "Get some rest. We have the photoshoot tomorrow, don't we?" Seeing nothing unusual in her expression, Jenson remained unconcerned.
That night, they lay back-to-back, lost in their own thoughts. The next morning, as they departed, Estella struggled with a heavy trash bag. Jenson took it effortlessly. "Why is it so heavy? What's in here?" he asked, reaching for the bag. Instinctively, Estella pressed his arm down. "Just useless stuff," she replied. The elevator arrived, interrupting the moment. Jenson lost interest, tossing the bag into the dumpster. Watching it disappear, Estella felt relieved.
At the studio, the staff showed them the outfits. Rows of wedding gowns lined the racks. As Estella considered other options, Jenson stopped before one. "Try this one, Estie. Didn't you say you liked this style?" he asked. Estella stared at the regal, vintage-style dress. Half a month prior, she'd sent him a picture of a similar design. Before discovering Emily, this would have been deeply touching. Now, she felt nothing. She acquiesced.
A few minutes later, as the staff adjusted Estella's gown, she complimented her. "Ms. Hart, you and your boyfriend must be so in love. He picked the perfect dress! Your photos will be amazing!"
As she spoke, another staff member entered hesitantly. "Mr. Moore said there's a work emergency. He can't stay for the shoot. We'll do a solo session, and you can return another day for the couple's photos." The staff member's forced smile and distance suggested anticipation of an emotional outburst, yet Estella simply nodded, indifferent.
After the shoot, Estella took a cab home alone. Before entering, she heard a woman's laughter from the living room. "Jenson, I can't believe I get to eat your cooking again after all these years." At the dining table, Jenson peeled a shrimp, placing it on the woman's plate. He turned and saw Estella. For a few seconds, he seemed caught off guard. Then, "Estie, this is Emily Blanchard. She's staying with us for a few days," he explained. Emily glanced at Estella. "You must be Jenson's girlfriend. I've heard about you. Thanks for having me. Jenson made my favorite salt-baked shrimp. Why don't you join us?" She stood, offering Estella her seat, then settled beside Jenson.
Estella realized their feelings weren't one-sided. They seemed like two sides of the same coin. "You two enjoy," she said calmly. "I'm tired. I'll rest in the bedroom." She turned to leave, but froze at the doorway.