Chapter 87: A Hasty Promise
In the beginning, everyone seems genuine. Back then, when Hoang Anh confessed his love to her, he did it right in the middle of the schoolyard. His grand romantic gesture made the whole school admire her — admire them. But how did that turn out? The charming, romantic boy turned out to be the one who betrayed her.
Love — whether it lasts or not — must go through many trials. More than anyone, Kieu Ly understood this. And now, it was Tra's turn to experience it for herself.
Still, Kieu Ly wanted to comfort her friend:
"You're overthinking again. It's your birthday today — try to be happy! That gloomy face of yours would make any guy lose interest."
While texting with Ly, Tra suddenly heard the familiar sound of Huy's motorbike. She quickly said goodbye and went outside to greet him.
Huy rushed in, parked the bike, and followed Tra into their room. Seeing the cold food on the table, he said:
"I keep coming home late these days. I've told you — just eat first, don't wait."
It wasn't like Tra liked waiting either. She had her own things to do. But she still believed that waiting for Huy was worth it. After a long day of stress, wouldn't it feel comforting to come home to someone waiting, to a warm meal already set out?
That's why she waited — and while waiting, she could still process her online orders.
She replied half-heartedly:
"Eating alone is depressing. I just can't swallow."
"That bad, huh? Then wait a bit, let's eat together."
Huy quickly turned on the stove, reheated the dishes, and sat down at the table with her. Tra scooped rice, gently placed it in front of Huy, then said:
"Today's my birthday."
Huy froze for a moment. He had been so busy, he'd completely forgotten. He hadn't even bought her a present. He looked at Tra, clearly remorseful:
"Crap. I'm so sorry. I completely forgot."
Tra picked up more food and placed it into his bowl:
"You seem to be under a lot of pressure lately."
"It's just work stuff. Let me handle it."
"But if you talk to me, maybe it'll feel lighter. Who knows, maybe I could offer some good advice. I am a Diplomatic Academy student after all — not totally useless."
"No need. I don't want people to say I'm clinging to my wife's apron strings."
"Do you really see me as your wife?"
Huy, of course, appreciated all that Tra did for him, and he understood her heart. But still, he kept doing things that made her feel insecure. He'd even forgotten her birthday.
He looked straight into her eyes and said seriously:
"I do. I really do want to marry you someday. But I need time."
Those words changed Tra's mood completely. She smiled and ate the rest of her meal happily.
After dinner, Huy took her out to the city and brought her to a jewelry shop, telling her to pick something as her birthday gift. Tra chose a pair of silver rings with small gems, handed one to Huy, and said:
"Let's consider this an early engagement. One for you, one for me."
Huy nodded, slid the ring onto his finger, then pulled out his card to pay.