Chapter 17

Oliver wasn't ready to give up—at least not yet. Even though Cynthia's cold rejection on the first day shattered something in him, humiliating him, it didn't extinguish the fire in his heart. He wanted her back, so for several days in a row, he lingered outside the Johnson residence, waiting, hoping. Finally, one morning, his patience was rewarded—Cynthia came out alone. Seizing the moment, he intercepted her at the gate, holding out a bouquet of blue roses—her favorite. "Cynthia, I know you're still angry with me, but I mean it—I've realized how badly I messed up. Please… just give me one more chance," he pleaded, his voice trembling with earnest desperation. "If you say yes, I swear—I'll give you the stars if you want them. Anything, just say the word." "You should leave," Cynthia replied quietly. Her voice was calm, her expression emotionless, like she was merely stating a fact. "We're done with each other. I've told you this before—I'm getting married. Please don't look fo