Ended My Six-Year Relationship with a Cheater

Chapter 7

The charcoal crackled as it came to life on the grill, and bottles of beer lined the table, setting the perfect vibe. Soon, the savory scent of grilled meat filled the air, making my stomach growl. Eugene walked over with a list, asking what movies we wanted to watch. After a lively debate, we picked four of the hottest films currently in theaters.

"Why don't you lie down in the tent and watch?" Eugene suggested, grinning mischievously. I felt a rush of embarrassment. "This tent is just for you, Oli," he added with a laugh.

Reluctantly, I crawled inside. Meanwhile, Eugene brought over a cozy lounge chair for Eloise, who draped a blanket over her belly and sighed in contentment.

"My brother is so thoughtful and kind. I wonder which lucky woman will end up with him one day," she said, and I nodded in agreement. He really was a good guy.

As the movie started, the place gradually fell quiet, everyone settling in. Eugene stayed focused on the grill, expertly flipping the food and distributing it into neat servings, directing his friends to deliver them to each table.

In that moment, I finally understood the appeal of it all.

Under the starry sky, a gentle breeze caressed us, and the chirping of insects filled the air. We savored the barbecue, watched the movie, and wrapped ourselves in the warmth of good company. Could anything be more comforting than this?

When the movie ended, a group of young people pulled out their instruments and began playing. To my surprise, Eugene picked up a suona and began to play, filling the night air with vibrant melodies. Laughter and playful banter followed, and genuine smiles spread across everyone's faces.

From that day forward, I found myself falling in love with this place. Whenever I had free time, I'd grab my laptop and rush over. My bond with Eloise and Eugene only deepened with each visit.

Two weeks later, I was dozing off in Eugene's business car when a strange phone call jolted me awake. I thought it might be about an interview, but as soon as I answered, I was greeted by Landon's hoarse voice.

"Oli, I miss you so much..."

Before he could finish, I immediately hung up and blocked the number. What an annoyance.

Eugene came over, handing me a glass of juice before settling into the trunk of the car.

"Olive, I've invited an opera troupe to perform in two days. Want to come?"

Excitement bubbled up inside me. "Of course!" I nodded eagerly.

I'd never seen a musical before, and the idea seemed so niche, like a star concert, something I never really had the chance to experience.

We exchanged a few more sentences, but just then, my phone rang again, this time from an unfamiliar number. Frustrated by Landon's persistence, I had an idea and handed the phone to Eugene.

"It's my ex-boyfriend calling. Can you pick up for me? If he asks who you are, just tell him you're my boyfriend."

Eugene's face immediately turned a deep shade of red. I hadn't expected him to be so flustered. He looked so innocent that it caught me off guard. I reached for the phone, but he was faster, quickly pressing the green button to answer.

His voice, cool and smooth like mint, flowed through the speaker. "Hello? Hello?"

There was a heavy silence on the other end, just the sound of strained breathing. A minute later, Landon's sharp voice cut through the quiet.

"Who are you?"

Eugene glanced at me, his face getting even redder. "I'm Oli's boyfriend. How can I help you?"

I had to stifle a laugh; his politeness was surprisingly charming. I hoped this would finally make Landon see things clearly.

But Landon's voice returned, now full of frustration and anger.

"Olive, you're unbelievable!"

With a click, the line went dead, replaced by the monotone of the busy signal.

Eugene paused for a moment, clearly unsure of what to say. He then turned to me, concern on his face.

"Olive, do you really want to break up with your ex-boyfriend?"

I could tell he was worried, not wanting to complicate things between us. He was just trying to help, but I didn't want him second-guessing his role in this situation. I took a deep breath, carefully choosing my words.

When I explained that I had truly moved on from Landon and had no intention of ever getting back together with him, Eugene's expression softened. The relief that washed over his face was unmistakable.