My Birthday, My Downfall novel Chapter 83

My mom had been urging me to date ever since I graduated from college.

Each time, I refused.

Everyone thought I wasn't interested in dating, unaware that I had been secretly seeing Hank.

"Sure, set up a time. Let me know when it's arranged," I replied without hesitation.

My quick agreement left her momentarily stunned. "You're saying yes so fast... Did something happen?"

"What could have happened?" I chuckled softly, adding with a hint of resignation, "Go ahead and arrange it. I trust your judgment. You're my mom; you wouldn't steer me wrong, would you?"

"Exactly! Just wait for my good news," she said enthusiastically.

After hanging up the phone, I got back to focusing on my work.

In my past life, after getting married, I had resigned from my job against everyone's advice, choosing to stay home as a housewife and giving up a promising promotion.

I sacrificed everything for love, only to end up with a life wasted.

This time, I wouldn't let the promotion slip away.

To avoid distractions while working, I turned off my phone entirely.

By the time I finished everything, it was already 9 p.m.—time for bed.

Still, I didn't turn my phone back on. Instead, I washed up and went to sleep.

The next morning, as I grabbed my bag to leave for work and opened the door, I was met with Hank standing outside.

He was still wearing yesterday's black trench coat, his hair slightly disheveled, dark circles under his eyes betraying his exhaustion. He looked like he had rushed back in a hurry.

"Hank, is something wrong?"

"Why didn't you answer your phone?"

Our voices overlapped as we spoke at the same time.

Hearing the sharp edge of accusation in his tone, I steadied myself and replied with a faint smile, "My phone was off, so I didn't notice. Did you need something?"

My tone was calm, almost indifferent.