A Journey from Bitterness to Truth (Matilda and Yvan) novel Chapter 260

The microphones were passed down the line, each reporter eager for a piece of Declan as they clamored to know why he had invested in this particular video game. But when they asked him the reason, he found himself tongue-tied.

What was it for? For... Chloe?

Declan could never admit that.

Yet, each time Chloe crossed his mind, a sharp pang would strike deep within his heart. He had poured money into a girly game that didn't match his style at all, just for Chloe. And now, Chloe would never play that game again.

Declan's gaze fell to the ground, scanning the circle of persistent journalists. Instinctively, his mind flashed back to a time when he was surrounded by reporters, and a slim figure in heels stood by his side, reaching out a hand, then shouting to the crowd, "Let's keep it orderly, folks! Don't block Mr. Yeager's path! Media with appointments, please step forward!"

She was always so defiant, as if the sky could fall and she wouldn't flinch.

People misunderstood her, thinking she was after money, or clinging to Declan's coattails, but Declan knew the truth. She was vulnerable because of a weak spot that he had firmly in his grasp. If Chloe ever decided she didn't need that weak spot anymore, then Declan would have no hold over her at all.

Lost in these memories, he was jolted back to reality by the cacophony around him, surrounded by faces he didn't recognize.

There was no more of that clear voice to maintain order, no more of that silhouette bustling around on his behalf.

Chloe had blown through Declan's life like a breeze, swirling around him before hurrying away without a trace.

Declan reached out, but there was nothing to grasp.

He faced the media again and took a deep breath, finally saying, "I invested in this game for a... friend."

The reporters, sensing a juicy story, pressed on, "Can you tell us what this friend means to you?"