Hector knew when to cut his losses. Weighing his options, he turned to Queenie and issued a cold ultimatum.
"If you still wanna be my girlfriend tonight, get in the car. Otherwise, we're done."
Then, he jabbed a finger at Joshua. "You'd better stay put. If you've got the guts, don't move!"
With that, he stormed toward his high-end sports car. But instead of driving off, he lingered, waiting to see if Queenie would follow.
Anya stepped beside Queenie, her voice gentle. "Queenie, don't cry. A guy like him isn't worth your tears."
Queenie wiped her eyes and murmured, "Thanks, Anya."
She struggled to stand, wanting to leave, but Anya grabbed her arm. Shocked, she asked, "Where are you going?"
Queenie let out a bitter smile before turning to face her. "Where else? If not with him, then who do I have?"
Anya's frustration boiled over. "Queenie, have some self-respect! After everything, you're still gonna go back to him?" She couldn't wrap her head around it. Why was Queenie clinging to someone who treated her like trash? Was money really that powerful?
"You don't get it, Anya." Tears shimmered in Queenie's eyes as she yanked her arm free. "I can't live without him."
Joshua suddenly stepped forward, his face a mix of desperation and heartbreak. Under the dim glow of the streetlights, Queenie looked heartbreakingly beautiful, and the sight of her crushed him.
"Queenie, please," he pleaded, his voice raw. "Don't get in that car. I'm begging you. I'll take care of you. Let's start over."
For the first time, Joshua confessed his feelings in front of a crowd. His gaze burned with sincerity, his posture unwavering, as if his entire future depended on her answer.
For a fleeting moment, something flickered in Queenie's eyes. But just as quickly, it faded. She shook her head. "Joshua, you're a good guy, but I…"
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