Love Dies But Money Lives

Synopsis

Three years after getting back together with Xavier, he cheated on me again. With the same woman from three years ago. When I ran into them at a restaurant, he lied and told me she was a client. The next moment, he shielded her behind him, looking at me with wariness and alarm. I knew what he feared—that I'd lose it again and hurt the woman he treasured most. But I simply stepped forward, straightened his slightly disheveled tie, and said gently: "Alright, I understand. Don't drink too much. Remember to use protection during sex." After a pause, I suddenly felt my concern was unnecessary, so I corrected myself: "Or don't do it at all. That's fine too." I thought I'd been gentle and considerate enough. But somehow, Xavier's face still darkened. The restaurant was quiet, with conversations deliberately kept low. Only the occasional soft clink of silverware against plates could be heard. The décor was thoughtful—roses everywhere, no other flowers in sight. Naturally, the people dining here were lovers. Or perhaps some were like Xavier. Everyone just tacitly played along, pretending to be affectionate. I acted as if I hadn't seen Xavier's darkened expression at all. I gave the woman he was shielding a slight nod, then turned and left. My friend walking beside me asked quietly, "Why aren't you angry?" Angry? I didn't seem to feel anything. Maybe I had been angry before, but it hadn't helped. I'd even paid a heavy price for it. A price I couldn't afford to pay a second time. I smiled calmly. "Nothing to be angry about. He was