he room grew colder as Magnon's presence loomed over Choen, the weight of old wounds thick between them. Choen's heart pounded — not from fear, but from the storm of memories Magnon was about to unleash.
Magnon's voice cut through the silence, sharp yet laden with bitterness.
"You think it's all easy for me? For years, I watched you shine — stealing every glance, every smile. Every moment, you took what should have been mine."
Choen's eyes narrowed, hurt flickering beneath the calm. "I never wanted to take anything from you, Magnon. I was just living my life."
Magnon scoffed, stepping closer, her gaze cold. "No, you don't get it. It was the contest. That day, when Aldric came to the cafe."
Flashback:
The warm light of a quaint French cafe bathed the room in golden hues. The scent of fresh pastries mingled with the murmur of quiet conversations. Choen stood behind the counter, nervously putting the finishing touches on a special dessert — a delicate mille-feuille she had crafted for the baking contest hosted by Aldric Dourthe's company.
Across the room, Magnon leaned against the wall, her arms crossed tightly, eyes fixed on the man who had captured her heart—and, unknowingly, Choen's as well.
Aldric entered with an air of casual confidence, his gaze sweeping the cafe. His eyes landed on Choen immediately, a warm smile lighting his face.
Magnon's jaw tightened.
"Look at her," Magnon whispered to herself, bitterness thick in her tone. "Always the center of attention. Always the one who wins."
Aldric approached the counter, eyes filled with admiration. "This looks incredible," he said to Choen. "You've outdone yourself."
Choen blushed, but her smile was genuine. "Thank you. I wanted to make something special."
Magnon watched, silent fury building inside her.
The contest began, and as judges tasted each creation, it was clear Choen's dessert was unmatched. When the winner was announced, the applause filled the room — but Magnon heard only the sting of defeat.
Back to present:
Magnon's voice was low, almost a whisper. "That day, you stole everything from me. My chance, my partner, my pride."
Choen shook her head, sadness flooding her eyes. "Magnon, I never wanted to hurt you. Aldric chose where his heart went—not me. I was just doing what I love."
Magnon's eyes flashed with rage. "Doesn't matter. You took him away. And I—well, I had to take back what was left. It was my time."
Choen's breath hitched. "You don't have to live in that pain. It's not a competition. We both deserved better than this."
Magnon looked away, the fire in her eyes dimming. "Maybe... but this is the only way I know how to survive."
Choen's voice softened, full of empathy. "Then let's find a better way. Not as enemies, but as people who've been hurt."
For a moment, silence stretched between them—thick and fragile.
Magnon's lips twitched into a faint, uncertain smile.
"Maybe... someday."
Back in the cabin, Choen blinked, the present rushing back.
Magnon was gone. The room was quiet once more.
But the weight of the past lingered — a reminder that every shadow has its story.
Hey, thanks for sticking with Choen through this intense moment! 🎉 The story's just getting deeper, and believe me, the rollercoaster isn't slowing down anytime soon. Keep your eyes peeled 👀 — the next chapters will bring even more surprises and twists you won't want to miss. And hey, if you're loving the ride, don't forget to drop a vote or share the story with your friends. Your support means the world! 🚀✨