Part 1The Hundred Chances I Gave You

Julian's proposal—which I personally helped plan for my best friend Quinn—was a huge success.

After the celebration died down, Quinn pushed Julian toward me with a grin, egging him on.

"Julian, your turn! Why don't you propose to Jenna today too? We'll have double the celebration!"

The spotlight swung onto Julian. I held my breath, waiting.

But he only gave a faint smile, walked past everyone, and headed straight backstage.

When he came out again, he was holding the hand of a girl covered in sweat, his tone casual and straightforward.

"Come on, Quinn, don't mess around. You only succeeded because Iris was backstage holding up the signs. You should really thank her properly."

"Absolutely! Let's do Japanese food!"

I stood awkwardly to the side, laughing at my own naivety.

Seven years. I'd given Julian ninety-nine chances.

This was the hundredth. And the last.

Julian, I'm done waiting.

The romantic music from the proposal scene still looped in the background.

He smiled and walked over to me.

The next second, he pulled a few pieces of candy from his suit pocket and held them out.

"Today's their day, after all. It wouldn't be appropriate for me to propose here."

"I picked these out while packing the wedding favors for Quinn. Saved some of the nice-looking ones."

He shook his wrist slightly, his voice gentle.

"I didn't eat any. I saved them especially for you."

"Thanks."

I lowered my eyes, took the candy, unwrapped one, and popped it in my mouth.

Very sweet. So sweet it was almost cloying.

"Jenna, is the candy good?"

I didn't know when Iris had sidled up to me, her head tilting toward my side.

"I could smell the chestnut from way over there. I knew there'd be candy."

I didn't respond. I just silently opened my hand and offered the candy her way.

"Little glutton."

Julian suddenly laughed, his tone relaxed and natural.

"Don't steal hers."

As he spoke, he pulled out a few more pieces from that custom-tailored suit.

My gaze drifted over—that pocket was now completely empty.

"Quinn really splurged on this proposal. Even the candy is imported."

He turned his head, speaking casually to Iris. "Try some. Wedding favors—share in the sweetness."

Iris held the candy, tilted her face up to look at him, her eyes curving into crescents.

"Thank you for thinking of me, Julian."

"After all, I was basically a human signboard for half the day. My arms are killing me."

"Take tomorrow off." Julian replied offhandedly. "I'll have accounting add a bonus to your check this month. Consider it compensation."

Iris's eyes lit up, and she gave an exaggerated bow.

"Thank you, Julian!"

She chewed the candy, patting her chest energetically.

"Julian, next time there's something like this, call me again! I may not have much, but I've got muscle to spare!"

"Count on me, and I guarantee you'll be satisfied!"

"Sure, sure. I'll call you next time."

Julian looked at her, the smile on his lips impossible to suppress.

Perhaps noticing my continued silence.

His gaze finally returned to my face, pausing slightly.

I spoke first.

"The candy's really sweet."