Twenty minutes later, Charles's iconic Bugatti Veyron gleamed under the streetlights as it pulled up in front of Janet. Manfred lingered behind her, watching helplessly as she smiled warmly at another man and slipped into his arms, a sharp pain piercing his heart.
After Charles left, Peggy and Simon pulled Manfred back inside. Manfred cast a forlorn glance toward the disappearing tail lights, silently wondering if Janet truly belonged to someone else now—and if he had lost his chance forever.
"You didn't tell me Manfred was here," Charles said calmly, his eyes fixed ahead, his tone tinged with displeasure.
"Sorry, I didn't know he was here either!" Janet admitted sheepishly, flicking her tongue out. She'd promised not to see Manfred again; tonight was just a coincidence. She had no idea Simon had called her to a place where Manfred was present. From now on, she would avoid any contact with him.
