The Twisted Obsession
Chapter 237: A gift

Chapter 237: A gift

Once outside the café, Abby was greeted by the presence of her bodyguard, who had been waiting discreetly nearby. The bodyguard, a tall, well-built man in a dark suit, approached her with a respectful demeanor.

"Ma’am, are you ready to go?" he asked, his tone professional yet warm.

Abby nodded, feeling a pang of loneliness as she thought of Remo, her husband. It was times like these that she felt the void more acutely, craving the familiar comfort of being near him. "Yes, thank you," she responded, her voice soft but composed.

The bodyguard led her to a sleek black car parked nearby. As he opened the passenger door for her, he asked, "Where to next?"

Abby paused for a moment, considering her options. The initial plan had been to go shopping, to distract herself and maybe find something nice for Remo. The thought brought a small smile to her face. "Let’s go to the shopping district," she decided, her voice gaining a hint of enthusiasm. "I need to pick up a few things."

"Very well, ma’am," the bodyguard replied, nodding as he closed the door gently once she was seated. He walked around to the driver’s side and soon, they were smoothly pulling away from the curb.

As the car glided through the city streets, Abby gazed out the window, her mind a whirl of thoughts. The conversation with Cage had stirred a mix of emotions, and while part of her was focused on her plans with Remo, another part was adrift in memories and what-ifs.

The shopping trip, she decided, would be a good distraction. A chance to clear her head and perhaps find a thoughtful gift for Remo,

Arriving at the shopping district, the bustling energy immediately enveloped Abby, offering a welcome distraction. The streets were lined with a variety of stores, from high-end boutiques to charming local artisans. Abby’s eyes scanned the displays, searching for something special that Remo would appreciate.

Her bodyguard stayed close, giving her enough space to browse while ensuring her safety. Abby wandered into a men’s boutique, her gaze catching on a collection of fine watches.

She paused in front of the display, her finger tapping lightly on the glass as she considered a sleek, modern design with a hint of classic elegance—just like Remo. The watch had a sophisticated face, framed by a durable band that hinted at both style and strength.

"May I see that one, please?" Abby asked the attendant, pointing to her choice.

"Of course, ma’am," the attendant replied, unlocking the case to retrieve the watch. As he handed it to her, Abby held it up against the light, admiring the way it caught the glow.

She wanted something special, something that spoke of her deep affection and the future they were planning together. Her thoughts were interrupted when a familiar voice called out her name.

"Abby? Is that you?"

Turning, Abby’s heart sank as she recognized the figure approaching her. It was Alex. He was the last person she wanted to encounter today was him.

"Alex," Abby responded coolly, her body tensing. "What are you doing here?"

Alex flashed a charming smile, one that once would have melted her defenses. "I was just shopping and saw you. You look great, as always," he said, stepping closer. His eyes held a hint of the old warmth that had once drawn her in.

"Thanks. I’m quite busy, so if you’ll excuse me," Abby tried to sidestep him, eager to escape the conversation.

But Alex moved to block her path, his demeanor changing as he sensed her reticence. "Come on, Abby, don’t be like that. I’ve missed you," he said, his voice dropping to a more intimate tone. "I’ve been thinking a lot about us, about how we ended things. I was wrong, and I’m sorry."

Abby’s patience thinned. "That’s good to hear, Alex, but it’s irrelevant now. I’m married, and I’m very happy." Her voice was firm, her stance resolute, but Alex persisted.

"Married? Really? To that guy, Remo, right?" He scoffed lightly, a trace of jealousy evident in his tone. "Come on, Abby, are you seriously happy with him? I know you, and I know I can make you happier. We were great together."

Abby felt a flash of anger. "We were great until you decided my cousin was a better fit for you," she retorted sharply. "I’ve moved on, Alex. I suggest you do the same."

Alex’s face fell for a moment, but he quickly recovered, reaching out to touch her arm. "I made a mistake, Abby. I see that now. Give me another chance—"

Abruptly, Abby stepped back, pulling her arm away. "No, Alex. It’s too late. I love my husband, and nothing you say is going to change that." Her eyes swept the area, signaling to her bodyguard who was a discreet distance away, watching attentively.

Noticing her glance, Alex realized he was fighting a losing battle. With a frustrated sigh, he stepped back. "Alright, Abby. If that’s what you really want."

"It is," Abby confirmed, her voice leaving no room for doubt.

Alex nodded reluctantly and walked away, leaving Abby to gather herself.

Turning back to the attentive store attendant, Abby smiled softly. "I’ll take this one," she said, her decision firm. "Could you please have it wrapped beautifully? It’s a special occasion."

"Absolutely, ma’am," the attendant replied with a knowing nod, perhaps sensing the weight of the moment for Abby.

As the attendant prepared the watch, Abby allowed herself a moment to reflect on her exchange with Alex. It was unsettling to see him again, to hear his words, but it also reinforced her gratitude for the life she had built with Remo. The life they shared was built on mutual respect and genuine affection, far removed from the turmoil of her past relationships.

With the watch securely wrapped and the transaction complete, Abby thanked the attendant and left the boutique. Her bodyguard, ever watchful, escorted her back through the bustling streets of the shopping district.