Emily's POV
The sweet words spilled from his lips like honey - "You're important to me," "I care deeply for you" - but I saw right through them. They were empty reassurances, crafted to soothe my frazzled emotions.
I searched his face, my gaze piercing, but his expression revealed nothing. Still, I knew better. He was pretending, feigning concern.
Olivia's haunting words still echoed in my mind: "I'll be back soon, and you'll return." The memory sent a shiver down my spine.
"No, you didn't do anything, Em."
I stared at him, shock etched on my face. "Em" - he'd never called me that before. Why now? It was just another tactic, a feeble attempt to soften the blow before cutting me out of his life. Just like everyone else. His sudden familiarity grated, a painful reminder of what I was about to lose.
The truth stung: I was disposable, a temporary convenience.
