Ryan remembered it was the last year of the university and the announcement was made that the prestigious opportunity to represent Cralens on the New York City Ballet stage was offered to one of their university candidates. At that time, the name of that particular dancer was kept secret, but they all knew it was no other but Arwen Quinn.He had even heard Gianna congratulating her for it, but later when the announcement was made official, Delyth’s name was put forward. Not just him, but the entire university was surprised because everyone knew with Arwen in the picture, Delyth stood no chance. People were so sure of it that on behalf of Arwen, they were ready to go against management.But then Arwen announced that she was retiring from the stage and dance was not her priority. Many were disappointed, especially the coaches that have trained her over the years. But since it was her choice, no one had anything to say. Many speculate that it was for Ryan, even though he believed the same. But Ryan never believed it so.If you have taken up that chance, you would have to go abroad for a few years, leaving everything back here. So, was it that clause that made you give up the idea? Daniel asked, hesitating a little.Arwen glanced at him, her lips curling up, deepening her previous smile. You want to ask if it was for Ryan? No one might have asked her, but she knew people were speculating the reasons behind her decision. Some were suggesting that she just gave up the opportunity so that she could grab one with Ryan. At that time, she found it ridiculous, but ultimately she couldn’t deny it, knowing that it was part of the reason.Daniel hesitated but didn’t refuse her. After all, he did think it like that.No, he wasn’t the true reason, Arwen finally said. I didn’t give up my dream opportunity for him, she clarified, adding. Why would I give that opportunity for a man who didn’t even value me or my dreams? People were ridiculous to think me infatuated with him when I never was.Daniel’s brows tugged together as he stared at Arwen, not understanding her words. She clearly followed around Ryan before, caring for him. Though she wasn’t clingy, he had seen her efforts —always. Was that all truly nothing?Ryan was an arrangement for me, same as I was for him. It was just that I took that arrangement more seriously than he did, Arwen began. And believe me, I didn’t do that because I was attracted to him or anything similar. Rather, I did all that because I knew how to value the promises better than him. Especially the promise I have given to my mother. All my efforts were just to fulfill that promise. I was ready to disappoint the world for her.But apparently… her voice faltered, but she kept her composure, completing, later I realize none of it was worth it. Not because I didn’t get anything in return, but because I expected something to come out of it. At least a decent humanity.Arwen still remembered that dark night. She was stuck in the car, expecting him to come and help her. But in the end, he appeared —not to save her but to leave her to die all so cruelly there.As the memory from that day resurfaced, a tear appeared on the corner of her eyes which she wiped away without much thought. Then taking a deep breath, she said, Daniel, I won’t say I had no feelings for Ryan because I had. But it’s not the feelings that you all think. To me, he was just a little more special than anyone else because I was set up with him for the future. But now that I have severed that chances of future, he means nothing. As for my decision to give up the stage, he might be a part of it, but I decided it solely because of my mother’s wish.Daniel nodded, though her words overwhelmed him, he couldn’t bring himself to doubt it. After all, he has witnessed it all the time. Arwen’s efforts though carried her care and reason, her attitude was never as it was when she introduced him to her husband.Though she didn’t do anything more than an introduction, but he has clearly noted the tender gaze she has held for him. The way her eyes shone finding Aiden there hit different. The difference was so clear that at that moment Daniel knew that she had completely given up on Ryan.But only now, he realized that Ryan never held the same chance itself.Giselle has made a name unparalleled to any other dance academies in Cralens, Daniel said switching the topic. I never knew the founder of it would be someone I know so closely. Seems like you have more and more of what could surprise the world.Arwen smiled. Uhm, I think for getting more surprises you will either need to wait for another day or depend on yourself. Looking down at her watch, continued, Because for now, I need to be somewhere else. I hope you don’t mind.Daniel shook his head. Definitely not. He then gestured her towards the car. Don’t let me hold you back.Thank you, she said. Hope to see and hear you soon at the company.As she was leaving, Daniel suddenly remembered something and stopped her. Oh yes, Arwen. I almost forgot to ask you something.Arwen paused and turned to look back at him. At which he continued, Last time, I was a bit confused. I am not sure why I am asking this even today, but I just wanted to confirm something with you. Aiden —is he someone we know back from the past?He couldn’t let go of the familiarity he felt the last time when he saw him. Although he couldn’t place what felt so familiar about Aiden, he was sure that there was something.
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