Chapter 3: The Betrayal
A few weeks ago...
Nora walked towards her home in a whirlwind of emotions, unaware of her surroundings. She had just finished finalising everything with the caterer but the woman's passing comment had shaken her somewhat. Even though the woman had only casually pointed out that she was too young and had no worldly knowledge, Nora had been unable to give a suitable reply. How did age matter when it came to loving someone? She and Antonio loved each other. They would learn about the world together.
But now doubts started to creep in and she could not help but feel a bit insecure, and she questioned whether they were rushing into this decision too hastily. They'd been together for so long and they could continue to be together in the future as well without the need for giving a specific label to their relationship.
Thankfully, her logical side chimed in, reminding her that she and Antonio had known each other and there was also no need to prove anything to outsiders. Since Antonio was ready to take their relationship to the next level, she had no problem with that.
Why should it matter whether they got married now or later? After all, they were going to the same university for their further studies, and being officially wedded wouldn't change that. She was probably feeling all this because she had not been in touch with him since the past week.
Pushing aside her doubts, she dismissed them as wedding jitters and took a calming breath to clear her head. She needed to remind herself of all the good times they'd had. Of how they had cheered each other through the years over small wins and failures.
She smiled softly when she thought of how he had asked her out. He'd been shuffling on his feet, unable to look at her even as he gave her the simple rose before burying his face into the history book. Maybe she should give him a surprise.
What if she recreated the scene where he had proposed to her? She had the keys to his house. All she needed was the textbook and the rose. And then she would ask him out on a date. As the idea struck her, Nora nodded to herself and happily started to plan everything.
First, she needed to go get the spare key from her house, and then
***
Soon, Nora stood outside Antonio's house, her heart fluttering with nervousness. As she saw the house's upper floor illuminated, she wondered if she was late and he had already arrived. It was only as she had been making preparations that she realised she only knew Antonio's date of return and not the time.
She wondered if her surprise would be ruined but then grinned. She would simply have to change things up a bit. Inserting the key, she opened the door and slowly sneaked in, excitement running through her veins.