Chapter 5-To meet my first love.

Monford also noticed a change in me. He thought I didn't look well and became concerned.

"Chloe, are you okay?"

"I'm fine. I'm just a bit confused."

I took the photo and asked him, "Monford, was I good at swimming?"

"Absolutely!"

A proud Monford exclaimed, "You started swimming at seven and began winning awards at eight. Any race you entered, you were always number one. Dad wanted to turn you into a swimmer, but you refused, claiming your skin would get ugly with too much water."

"But Grandpa said I lost my memory from falling into the water. If I was good at swimming, why did I end up in the hospital? And at my birthday party."

I desperately sought an answer. Despite the emotional pain it brought, I needed to know.

Monford looked down at the picture in my hand and fell silent.

His silence heightened my unease.

I realized that the answers I sought might be painful.

"Monford, please tell me!"

"Not that I don't want to tell you, Chloe..."

Monford sighed. "Actually, after I received the news that you lost your memory, I felt relieved.It helps you forget something that has been very painful."

"Whether it's painful or not is my business. As the person involved, I have the right to know the truth!"

"Well, I'll tell you. I'll tell you everything. But Chloe, promise me you won't suffer any more, okay? It would break my heart."

I nodded seriously. Monford saw my determination and, after the blonde brought in the milk, guided me to the sofa to share the story of the birthday party.

"... That's how it happened."

"While I was in the kitchen instructing them to make your favorite pasta, I rushed to the pool upon hearing the news. You were unconscious."

Monford's eyes reflected his love for me, and he squeezed my hand reassuringly.

"So... Did the person not show up eventually?"

I tried to recall the person's name, but each attempt caused a sharp pain in my heart.

"I don't know... I went to see him after you were in the hospital. He claimed he was in France that day and couldn't make it back for your party."

"Well, do you think I should believe him..."

My nose tingled, and my eyes started to blur.

I must have loved that man deeply. Even with my lost memory, uttering those words still pained me.

I couldn't hold back my tears. Fearful that Monford would notice, I lowered my head, attempting to conceal my emotions.

"Silly girl."

Monford gently placed his hand on my head and pulled me into his embrace.

"No man in the world is worthy of you in my opinion. Chloe, you're perfect!"

"I'm so sad. I can't remember his face or name, but why am I so sad?"

"Let the tears flow if you need to. Never suppress what's in your heart."

I wept in Monford's arms until my eyes resembled walnuts and wouldn't open.

Monford requested the blonde to fetch an ice pack for me. He had me lie on his lap, carefully placing the ice pack on my red and swollen eyes.

His movements were tender, causing me no discomfort. With his presence, I felt considerably better.

"Did Raimundo have a childhood sweetheart? If he already likes someone, why did my past self pursue him?"

"Because our Chloe always gets what she wants. If Raimundo has a crush, it doesn't matter to you. As long as it's the person you desire, even if married, you must pursue him!"

"That was then. I'm not that foolish now."

Monford chuckled.

Evidently, he didn't believe me.

"I'm serious. I've thought it through. Why should someone as beautiful and well-off as me be limited to just one man? It's a catastrophe for the world!"

"I want to meet more men, good-looking men with good bodies! Even if they're after my money, it's fine. Because I, Chloe Meredith, am the wealthiest woman in the city!"

Monford's phone rang, disrupting the relaxed atmosphere.

Is that a call from my Grandpa blaming me?

Monford picked up his phone and checked the screen. His expression turned serious, and he gave me a complex look.

"Is that Grandpa calling?"

Monford shook his head, and I felt relieved.

Then he said something that left me astonished.

"It's Raimundo."

Three minutes later, Monford ended the call.

"Why did he suddenly call you? I clutched a throw pillow on the couch.

"I forgot I had lunch plans with him."

I was surprised.

"But it's already past two in the afternoon. You're only having lunch now?"

"This is our special time. Nice to have time for lunch, but when I'm busy, I go without it all day."

"Poor guy."

Monford asked as he grabbed his coat from the rack and buttoned it.

"How did you come to the company? Do you want my driver to take you home?"

"No! I don't want to go back yet."

"Will you stay here? Can I finish my meal in twenty minutes and then come back with you?"

"No!"

I declined Monford decisively. A thought had occurred to me after our conversation.

Having spoken with Monford, I was eager to meet Raimundo.

I was desperate to know what he was truly like. What kind of person could make me love him enough to propose at my own birthday party, back when I looked down on others?

Monford was shocked by my revelation and initially refused, fearing I would meet Raimundo and fall in love with him again.

How was that possible?

Chloe's heart couldn't belong to just one man.

After numerous assurances from me, Monford reluctantly agreed to take me to Raimundo.

I retrieved my makeup mirror and lipstick from my bag. My eyes were still slightly red and swollen, but my original beauty now had a touch of vulnerability, making it easier for a man to captivate my heart.

What man wouldn't desire me for who I am?

Monford and I left the office arm in arm. As the door opened, I heard the familiar rustle of clothes again.

In the next moment, the imposing yet awkward man, Aiden, stood before Monford and me.

"President Meredith, just give me a minute, and I'm sure you'll reconsider."

He attempted to say more but stopped upon seeing me with Monford.

Monford's expression became uneasy as he furrowed his brow and briskly led me away.

I glanced back at Aiden. He stood there like a statue, staring blankly in the direction Monford and I were headed.

It wasn't until our shadows vanished from his sight that he realized what he had missed.

"Damn it! I finally had the chance to meet the CEO, how can I... Damn it!"