Chapter 1
On the racetrack, race cars were speeding past one after another.
As the timer ticked down, a modified Porsche drifted beautifully around the bend and crossed the finish line.
Sitting in the stands, I looked up at the giant screen broadcasting the live feed.
Amid the roaring cheers of the crowd, Eli Rhodes stood before the live camera, smiling as he gave his interview.
During the victory party, I excused myself to use the restroom.
On my way back, I overheard him chatting with his friends.
"Eli, today's race completely shattered your previous record. But honestly, if Sphinx were here, you might not have stood a chance against him."
Eli didn't say a word, merely swirling the red wine in his glass.
"But really, when are you and Jenna Bloom going public? You've been together for five years already."
I held my breath, waiting for his answer.
Eli and I had been in a secret relationship for five years.
When we first started dating, Eli was just a wallflower in the racing world, and his career was barely taking off. I didn't want to hold him back, so I suggested we wait to go public.
I never expected that five years would pass without him ever bringing it up again.
Now, he has absolutely nothing holding him back if he wants to acknowledge our relationship.
Eli lit a cigarette and scoffed, "Her? I definitely loved her during the first few years, but after all this time, I've grown tired of her."
"But Jenna is gorgeous. She was our school's homecoming queen back then. So many guys chased her, yet she didn't give any of them the time of day, only for you to sweep her off her feet."
"Exactly, Eli. You'd better hold on to her tight. Don't go regretting it later."
Some laughed while others offered advice.
Standing outside the private room, I listened to Eli's cold, indifferent words.
'My hands clenched at my sides, my knuckles turning white.'
I reached out and pushed the door open.
The room fell deathly silent as every eye turned to me.
