Taylor's sharp question hung in the air as Leonora kept her head down. The car was silent, almost suffocatingly so. After a moment that felt like forever, Leonora finally spoke up, her voice steady but distant, "I'm not trying to bring you down or pick a fight. It's just... that's your world, and I don't want to be a part of it."
Before Taylor could say anything, she added, "I know you think it's out of respect for me, but I don't want that." She paused, choosing her next words carefully. "What I can do now is just be with you like before and then go home."
"You promised me before. You said you'd think about it, but you haven't. You're always planning your next move, leaving me cornered."
She hadn't wanted to bring this up, hoping to give him some time to think it over, especially since he seemed sincere last time. But now, he was pushing it, taking advantage of her willingness to talk and making unreasonable demands.
Leonora's calm explanation left Taylor silent, his brows furrowed. He rolled down the window and lit a cigarette, the smoke swirling out into the night as he mulled over her words. Several times, he seemed on the verge of saying something but held back.
Finally, he stubbed out the cigarette and turned to her. "Leaving you out and going to see my friends alone? I can't do that. Just this once, okay? I won't put you in a tough spot next time."
After taking a moment to calm down, Taylor spoke to her gently, as usual, even though he didn't agree to let her out of the car or take her home.
Seeing her silence, Taylor reached over and gently squeezed her neck. "Trying to make you happy here, but you won't give me a chance."
He was sure that any other woman would be thrilled to meet his friends, excitedly preparing days in advance. After all, their circle wasn't easy to get into. But Leonora was different. She didn't care about a simple meal and even seemed annoyed by it.
What Taylor didn't realize was that Leonora was practical. She knew everything he offered her was temporary, fleeting. So she didn't bother chasing after these illusions, avoiding stepping into a world that wasn't hers. There's a saying, "Different circles, don't force integration." Leonora was very clear-headed.
Despite Taylor's frustrations, Leonora said, "I don't want to ruin your mood or make you unhappy. I still hope we can talk things through."
Taylor tolerated her, and Leonora could see it. She also feared truly upsetting him, worried he might retaliate against her or her family. So, after every argument, as long as his attitude was somewhat decent, she tried to soothe him, making him feel better.
Leonora's explanation made Taylor chuckle. "My queen, you truly are my queen." He added, "It's just a casual dinner, don't be nervous."
"I'm not nervous."
Leonora insisted she wasn't, and as Taylor started the car, he took her hand.
Soon, they arrived at the restaurant's outdoor parking lot. Taylor got out and, seeing Leonora open the door, rushed over to protect her head.
Leonora glanced up at him. "Thanks."
Taylor ruffled her hair and then took her hand, leading her towards the restaurant.
With Leonora, Taylor was becoming less and less concerned about appearances.
Holding Leonora's hand, they soon reached the private room Grayson had mentioned. Taylor pushed open the door, revealing Jason Estrella, Grayson Thomas, Bryce, Jesse, and a few other friends from their circle.
Angel, the young girl, wasn't there; she was busy preparing for her college entrance exams.
Estrella and Jesse were visibly pregnant, over five months along.
"Mr. Taylor."
"Mr. Taylor, who's this?"


VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: 30 Days Till I Divorce My Husband