Two Chances,One Bullet: How His "Next Life" Promise Failed Novel

Chapter 8 Asher returned the next day . His manner was casual as he affectionately kissed her cheek , his voice gentle : " Still angry ? Let me apologize , okay ? " He produced a bouquet from behind his back : " Look , do you like it ? " " Though I don't have much money , Riley , you know I love you . I'll give you the best I can within my means! " Meeting his expectant gaze , Riley lowered her head : " I'm not angry anymore . " Only when you care can you be hurt .

She no longer loved him , so how could her heart ache ? Asher took her hand , ready to leave : " Great ! Since you're not mad anymore , let's go . " " Where ? " Riley asked , startled . " To Nora's birthday party ! Nora's so kind - hearted - she says she won't hold your false accusations against her and sincerely invites you to attend . " A bitterness she couldn't express welled up from deep within Riley .

Asher wasn't comforting her out of guilt or love , but only to fulfill his promise to Nora . He gave Riley no chance to refuse , dragging her out in her pajamas to the birthday celebration . A private castle covered in pink roses was piled high with luxury gifts . Nora wore an expensive dress encrusted with diamonds . She smiled broadly as she took Asher's arm , offering Riley a glass of champagne : " Riley , thanks for coming to my birthday party !

Have this drink , and let's put all our past grievances behind us , okay ? " Riley now noticed that among the guests were former colleagues and mutual friends from their orchestra days . They had seen her at her most vulnerable , and they had also witnessed her holding the Blackwell siblings ' hands , declaring she would " never forgive .

" But now , Nora had taken everything from her and was forcing her to publicly shred her last shred of dignity , She pushed the champagne back : " I'm sorry , I can't drink . " " Riley ! " Vivian frowned in displeasure : " What are you doing ? Today is Nora's birthday - why are you being such a killjoy ? I'm your best friend - just do this for me , okay ? " The friends around them chimed in : " Is it really worth holding such a grudge after all these years ?

" " We all make mistakes when we're young . As long as she's sorry , let bygones be bygones ! " No one knew what Riley had been through Nora's signature red lips and wavy hair had become Riley's lifelong nightmare . Even though Nora had " paid her price . " Wiley couldn't make new friends or stand on stage again . Two Chances , Our Bullet How His Next I de Promise Failed Chapter 8 She would dive into bathroom stalls and tremble at the sound of laughter that resembled Nora's on the street .

Who were these people to forgive on her behalf ? Vivian made a disgusted " tsk " sound and pushed past Riley : " Sorry , everyone . My friend is just stubborn and clueless ! I'll drink this for her . From now on , they have no grudges , and please , let's all forget what happened back then ! " She raised the glass and drained it . Asher stood with a smile playing at his lips , his gaze never leaving Nora's face . Kiley's mouth twisted into a mocking smile as she turned to leave .

When she reached the second - floor balcony , Nora followed , grabbing her wrist : " Where are you going ? Surprise - you're finally getting what you deserve ! " Riley struggled to break free : " Nora , Asher is yours now , and so is Vivian . What more do you want ?! " 21:58