Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown novel Chapter 142

She knew all too well that if she were to be with Samuel, happiness would likely follow her for the rest of her life. But she... she could never truly reciprocate Samuel's feelings.

Wasn't that a kind of cruelty in itself?

So...

"I remember the first time we met was at the freshman orientation, which means you've had feelings for me for seven years."

"Seven years, how many seven years does a person have in a lifetime?"

Serena's voice was tinged with melancholy. "Learning to let go can be a form of happiness too."

Samuel's eyes clouded over for just a moment before he smiled and said, "Unless you're a fish, how can you know the joy of a fish? I've never sought any outcome from liking you."

Serena was taken aback. "Even if there's never a result, you won't regret it?"

Samuel pushed the plate of chicken wings the waiter had brought towards Serena. "Not at all."

Serena fell silent.

But Samuel chuckled softly. "Do you remember what you said when you were chasing Aaron?"

Serena asked, "What did I say?"

"You said you'd keep going until you hit a wall. You turned back only after you were battered and bruised. I haven't even hit a wall yet, and I'd be a joke if I turned back now."

Serena couldn't help but laugh, tears in her eyes.

Seeing her smile at last, Samuel said earnestly, "Serena, you don't need to feel burdened. I have the right to love you, and you have the right to refuse me."

After a moment, Serena nodded gently.

"Come on, eat up." Samuel pushed a few more baskets of food towards her.

Serena looked at the table laden with food and smiled.

After breakfast, they strolled along the street to walk off their meal.

"What's your plan now?" Samuel asked.