Chapter 12 Chapter 12 The celebration was intimate just family and close friends from high school . Still , the grand ballroom felt overwhelming . Everyones eyes widened when they saw me there , like theyd seen a ghost . I could almost hear their thoughts : Whats she doing here after everything ? I just smiled politely and made small talk , playing dumb . But you couldnt miss their not so subtle glances , the whispered conversations that stopped when I walked by . Four years of high school had taught me exactly what gossip looked like . Needing to escape , I stepped onto the terrace for fresh air . Thats when I heard voices from around the corner where his friends had cornered him by the service entrance . Seriously ? I thought she was done with you after the whole Madison thing at the party . Now shes crawling back ? Aidens laugh was cold , entitled a sound Id never heard from him before . Shes just being dramatic . Give her a few days you really think shed walk away after all these years ? She doesnt know how to exist without me . 11 I dont know , man , his friend said . Brooklyns pretty great . All those years together , the way shed drop everything for you … most guys would kill for a girl like that . Yeah , childhood sweetheart versus dream girl thats rough . Whats your game plan ? Aiden was quiet for a moment . When he spoke , his voice was calculated . Look , Brooklyns great , sure . Sweet girl , totally devoted . But it feels like settling , you know ? Im eighteen- who wants to be tied down to their high school girlfriend forever ? Thats such a clich . I want to experience college life , meet new people … besides , he laughed , shell always be there waiting , keeping the light on like a good little girlfriend . His friend went quiet . Finally punched his arm . Youre such an asshole . I couldnt stomach another word . I slipped away silently , my designer sneakers soundless on the marble floor . The evening air hit my face as I rounded the corner , and I finally let the tears fall . Six years of memories played through my mind like a highlight reel of my own stupidity . Every shared secret , every late night call , every Ill always be there for you all just convenient lies from someone who saw me as a backup plan . 21.1 % Chapter 12 I leaned against the balcony railing , watching the city lights blur through my tears , hating myself for being so blind for so long . For believing that the boy next door routine meant something real . For thinking that growing up together meant growing old together . Chapter 13 Chapter 13 In "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" by CrushReel, the storyline unfolds as renowned photographer Jane finds herself drawn to the charismatic rookie model, Hector. Little does she know that Hector harbors a secret—he is actually the heir to a powerful business empire. As their romance blossoms, Hector grapples with concealing his true identity to capture Jane's heart. However, their love story takes a tumultuous turn when jealousy rears its ugly head, threatening to unravel the delicate balance they've built. This modern romance novel delves into themes of hidden identities, unexpected love, and the complexities of maintaining a relationship shrouded in secrecy. With its blend of sweet romance and suspenseful twists, "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" stands out for its exploration of hidden feelings and the consequences of revealing long-held secrets. For readers seeking a captivating tale that combines elements of romance, intrigue, and emotional depth, this ongoing story is available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in the world of Jane and Hector as their journey unfolds against the backdrop of hidden truths and heartfelt revelations.