The next day, Flora was at the CVS store, picking up some last-minute party supplies. As she browsed the candy aisle, she ran into Samuel.
"Flora!" Samuel exclaimed, his eyes lighting up. "Long time no see! I didn't know you lived around here."
"Samuel!" Flora said, equally surprised. "What a coincidence!"
They chatted for a few minutes, catching up on each other's lives. Flora felt a familiar warmth spread through her as she talked to Samuel. He was so easy to talk to, so comfortable to be around.
As they said goodbye, Samuel leaned in and gave her a quick hug. "I'm really looking forward to the party next week,"
Flora blushed. "Me too," she said.
Unbeknownst to them, Elias was driving past the CVS store that very moment. He spotted Flora through the window, laughing and talking with… another man?
His blood ran cold. Who was this guy? Was he her boyfriend? Was this why she'd been acting so distant lately?
He pulled over to the side of the road, his hands clenched on the steering wheel. He watched as Flora and the man hugged goodbye. A fierce wave of jealousy washed over him.
He grabbed his phone and dialed Flora's number. She didn't answer. He called again. And again. Still no answer.
Elias slammed his fist on the dashboard. He had to find out who this guy was. He couldn't lose her before he even had her.