Quiet Goodbyes, A Love Without Tomorrow

The moment I decided to leave Vincent Thompson, I made three bold moves. First, I listed all the expensive gifts he had given me up for free onlinebuyers only needed to pay for shipping. Second, I secretly sold the apartment wed bought for our future at a fraction of its value and shredded the million-dollar custom wedding gown I had yet to wear. Third, I erased myself from the world, signing up for a classified, decade-long national research project that required cutting all ties with the outside worldmaybe even forever.

By the time Vincent had meticulously planned his perfect proposal, I had already vanished from his life. He never realized it, but I was quietly preparing to leave with every embrace, kiss and night he didnt come home while playing wedding with his childhood sweetheart. I had become the obedient, accommodating woman he claimed to adore, only to have him shatter my trust.

One night, he finally lost control and asked me, Why dont you get angry anymore? Do you not love me anymore?

I avoided his gaze, my lips tight. But when I heard the flirtatious voice note from his childhood sweetheart, Zoe Williams, echo from his phone, I calmly made the call to confirm my decade-long national research project.

***

Claire Olivia, are you absolutely certain? My professors tone was grave. This research project is top-secret. Its a ten-year commitment. Once you enter, you may never be able to leave or contact anyone outside again.

His voice softened and serious as he added, You are my most brilliant student. I have to ask you to think this through carefully.

I stood outside a bridal boutique, watching Zoe wear the wedding dress I had spent months designing and commissioning. She stood beside Vincent, their faces pressed close as they posed for photos.

Vincent also imitated the veil-lifting kiss, they were following a trend he had seen online. Then, as if to hammer the knife deeper into my chest, he removed his ringthe one meant for meand slipped it onto her finger.

A pang struck my heart, but it passed quickly, leaving behind only numbness.

Im sure, Professor, I replied, my voice calm. You know, I am an orphan with no family or attachments. This is an honoura chance to give back to my country. What more could I ask for?

A year ago, my professor had invited me to join this program. But back then, I had just accepted Vincents proposal and could not bear to leave. Now, there was nothing I cared about.

Relieved, my professor said, I will arrange it for you on my side. But it is urgent, so they will come to pick you up in a week. Use this time to settle your affairs. Dont leave anything unresolved.

As I ended the call, Zoes voice floated over to me. Vincent, youre the best! I really love this dress so much!

The dress she wore was the one I had dreamed of wearingcustom-made by a top designer, a one-of-a-kind piece that took months to create. It was worth ten million dollars, the only one and I havent even worn it myself yet.

Its just a dress, Vincent said gently, stroking her hair. As long as you are happy.

But what if my sister-in-law sees? Wont she be upset?

Noticing me standing at the entrance, his face flashed with panic for a brief moment before quickly recovering. He released Zoes arm and said in a low voice, Be a good girl. Go take it off and let her try it on.

Zoe pouted, reluctant to part with the gown. Just a little longer, please? She can wear it whenever she wants. Ill never get the chance again.

Dont be silly, he replied, pinching her cheek with a laugh. One day, you will find a boyfriend and have your own wedding dress to wear.

But who could ever compare to you, Vincent? she said coyly.

They joked and flirted openly, without a care for my presence.

Afraid I would confront Zoe, Vincent impatiently turned to me, offering a flimsy explanation, Shes just playing a wedding game, okay? Dont get upset over this, okay?

If this had been the past, I would have explodedfighting, yelling, maybe even tearing the gown apart to ensure no one else could have it. But with my thought of leaving him only a week away, what was the point? Sometimes, silence was the loudest response.

For the first time, I was not angry. I was free.

I lightly laughed and said to Vincent. Its just a wedding dress. If she likes it, then let her have it. Then I left them as I said, Ive got work at the lab. Ill head out now.

Vincent froze, watching me leave without another word.

***

Later that evening, Vincent came to pick me up for the first time in months. He brought a small mango cake with him, holding it out like a peace offering.

But, the problem? Im allergic to mango.

Its Zoe who loved mango, not me. After all this time, he still didnt know the difference.

I am afraid youd forget to eat while working, so I brought this for you, he said, as though the cake could smooth things over. He wanted me to take the bait, to play along like I always did.

So I did. I smiled brightly, pretending to be touched. Thank you so much!

Vincent looked surprised that I didnt argue or complain.

On the drive home, he glanced over at me. Claire, are you mad at me?

I was preoccupied with thoughts about the labwrapping up my project, preparing my notes and ensuring I left clear instructions for my junior colleagues. I did not hear his words well, so I let out an ah.

I apologized a little, Sorry, I just got lost in thought. What are you talking about?

Perhaps my tone was too rusty.

He slammed on the brakes and turned his head to look at me, Are you still mad about that wedding dress?

Hmm? I blinked, genuinely confused. Why would I be? No, of course not.

Vincent looked at me for a few seconds, searching my face for anger. But all he found was calm indifference. His grip on the steering wheel tightened as he started the car again. His voice, however, was hoarse. Youve changed. Youre not like this not like you used to be.

He was not wrong.

A year ago, after Zoe graduated and returned to our town, Vincent and I both changed. We fought endlessly because of her. He always said that he only treats Zoe as his little sister and told me not to be unreasonable.

Shes like a little sister to me. Stop being so unreasonable! hed yell, defending her every time.

The most serious fight was the one where he got furious and pointed at me.

At that moment, he said, Claire, youre ridiculous! If I had anything going on with Zoe, would I even be with you? Youre just a broke student who depends on me for everything. If we broke up, how would you even survive?

We had a cold war for a month. In the end, I swallowed my pride and begged for forgiveness.

But love doesnt die all at onceit fades, bit by bit, like ice melting under the sun. Over the past year, the constant fighting and Zoes smug presence drained whatever feelings I had for him.

Now, I couldnt even muster a reaction.

I smiled faintly. You are right. I wasnt very mature before. But I have grown up now. I will do better.

Because soon, I wouldnt be here at all, I thought.

***

Before going to bed that night, while Vincent was in the shower, I saw Zoes new post on her social media feed.

Nine photos.

She wore my wedding dress, smiling radiantly as she held onto my fianc.

[Getting married to the one I love! Xixixi!]

Dozens of their friends liked the post.

Someone even commented, [Wait, isnt that Vincent in the background?]

Zoes smug reply, [Yes! My brother favours me the most!]

I quietly liked the post, put my phone away and got ready for bed.

I just lay down briefly when the bed beside me dented. Vincents cold skin pressed against mine as he slid an arm around my waist.

Claire... he murmured, his breath warm against my ear. His hand slipped under the hem of my nightgown, fingers trailing along my skin.

I shifted slightly, putting space between us. Then I gently grabbed his hand and said, Vincent, Im tired tonight. I dont want to.

In all the years we had been together, I never refused him.

In the past, whenever we lost our temper, it was almost always resolved in bed. Vincent loved taking his time, teasing and coaxing me into surrender until I begged for him.

And afterwards, he would hold me tightly, whispering sweet nothings and asking me not to be jealous anymore.

But tonight, I felt nothing.

It hit me that, with my decision to leave so close, none of this really mattered anymore.

After I turned him down that night, Vincent froze for a moment, his body stiff with tension. Perhaps his pride wouldnt allow him to ask why I had rejected him. He just muttered a quiet Okay and turned his back to me.

That night, the space between us felt as far as the Milky Way.

The following day, Vincent was gone before I woke up. I dont know if he was afraid I would be jealous of Zoes circle of friends.

But a surprise was waiting on the dining tablea plate of slightly burnt toast, a fried egg and a glass of milka rare gesture from someone who had never made breakfast.

Beside the plate was a sticky note: For my wifeenjoy.

My phone buzzed with a message from him,

Vincent: [Honey, Ive put the wedding dress in the study. Try it on and send me a photoI know youll look the most beautiful.]

I finished the toast (a bit charred but edible) and headed to a stationery store, where I bought a countdown calendar. Back home, I tore off the first page. There were six days left.

Then I got to work packing.

I started in the den, clearing away framed photos, books wed shared and all the papers and trinkets wed accumulated together. As I placed the last item in a box, something fell outa diary.

Flipping through it, I saw pages filled with our happy memoriesdates, anniversaries and little notes about the silly things wed done.

The paper had yellowed slightly, but the memories were still vivid. I hesitated, then decided to leave it behind.

But that wedding dress? It mocked me, hanging there as if nothing had changed. I couldnt resist grabbing a pair of scissors. I slashed the dress to shreds in a few swift, emotionless motions.

It felt oddly satisfying.

I took it a step further, listing all the expensive gifts Vincent had ever given me onlinefor free, as long as the recipients paid for shipping. By the time Id finished packing, almost everything had been sold. I scheduled a courier to take it all away the next day.

That evening, my phone buzzed, reminding me that I had tickets at seven oclock immersive play tonight. A popular one sold out for weeks. Id booked the tickets long ago when I thought Vincent and I would go together.

I didnt plan to ask Vincent if he was still going because he had long forgotten about it. Just before the show started, he texted that he was busy with work and asked me not to wait for him for dinner.

I rolled my eyes and went alone. Since I couldnt get front-row tickets, my seat was in the right aisle, not too close to the stage. The play was incrediblea heart-wrenching love story about life and death. By the end, I was moved to tears.

When the play was about to end, the actors went to the stage to interact with the audience. A giant screen lit up, announcing a random audience member selected for interaction. The big screen showed that Vincent had been chosen and sat next to Zoe.

Oh, it turned out that work was busy accompanying Zoe. They also got the privilege to buy the front row. The spotlight shone on them and they looked perfect togetherVincent, sharp and handsome; Zoe, radiant and elegant.

The actors asked if they were a couple. Zoe giggled and leaned into Vincents arm, not even waiting for his response. The crowd roared with cheers and teasing.

The actor asked if they were touched. To cherish the people around them and, more importantly, their fate as a couple, they asked if they would like to kiss deeply, as in the plays last scene.

Only frozen for a moment, Zoe smiled, tilted her head and kissed him with a smile, her lips brushing his in full view of everyone.

Not knowing what came to mind, Vincent flinched and pushed her away abruptly. He stood up, his expression unreadable and turned his head slightly.

Our eyes met across the theatre.

I felt... nothing. No anger, no sadness, just a faint sense of relief. I broke the gaze, grabbed my bag and left the theatre.

As I reached the exit, I heard hurried footsteps behind me. Vincent chased after me, his hair dishevelled from running. Perhaps it was because he saw that I was calm since the beginning.

Different from the past, he began to explain, Claireseriously, he panted, trying to catch his breath. Listen, its not what it looked like. There were so many people watching. I couldnt embarrass heror myself.

I nodded, smiling lightly. Uh-huh, I understand.

He stared at me, confused. Wait... Are you saying that, or are you just being sarcastic because youre jealous?

I laughed softly. Vincent, whats there to be jealous about?

At this moment, Zoe also ran out, but because she was wearing high heels, she suddenly broke her foot when she was almost in front of us.

Vincent, it hurts so much, Zoe whimpered, her voice soft and frail.

He hesitated, torn between wanting to help her and the fact that I was standing right there. His expression twisted into an uncomfortable mix of guilt and indecision.

I spoke first, breaking the tension. If it hurts that badly, you should take her to a hospital. You wouldnt want it to turn into something serious.

My words surprised himhe wasnt expecting me to be so calm, so understanding.

Vincents eyes softened as he reached for my hand. Ill take her to the nearby clinic and return for you. Wait for me at the entrance, okay?

Sure, I replied lightly.

He looked at me for a moment as though searching for anger or reproach in my face. But I stayed composed, not giving anything away. Finally, he released my hand, scooped Zoe up in his arms and walked off.

I didnt wait. I wasnt going to play the fool this time.

***

As I was leaving, my phone buzzed with a call from a junior colleague at the lab.

Miss Claire, weve got an abnormality in one of the experiments and no one can figure out whats causing it. Could you come take a look?

Without hesitation, I headed straight there.

Time flew as we worked through the problem and the sun was already rising when the wrong link was also found and repaired.

The younger researchers showered me with compliments. Miss Claire, youre a genius!

Finally, they were reluctant to let me go again, Miss Claire, are you really leaving for that classified research project?

I nodded, Yeah.

But what about your wedding? one of them asked hesitantly.

Are you really okay with leaving?

I paused for a moment, then smiled. The countrys work is more important.

What I didnt say was that, for Vincent, my presence or absence didnt seem to matter anymore.

This world keeps spinning, with or without me.

***

Dragging my exhausted body home, I opened the door and she was again.

Zoe Williams.

She was wearing one of Vincents shirts, her bare legs peeking out as she walked out of the master bedroom.

When she saw me, she didnt even flinch. Dont misunderstand, Claire, she said casually. After the clinic visit, it was really late. I didnt want to go home since my parents were out of town. Vincent was just being consideratehe didnt want me to be alone while Im injured.

Before I could respond, Vincent stepped out of the bathroom, his hair damp from a shower. When he saw me, probably thinking I would get upset again, his brows furrowed, bracing for another argument.

Claire, he sighed, I dont want to mess with you early in the morning.

Shes coming to work with me today and didnt have anything to wear, so I lent her one of my shirts

Its fine, I interrupted, cutting him off.

Both of them froze, caught off guard by my calm tone.

Vincent looked at me incredulously as if he felt my reaction was too calm.

He explained, Last night, she slept in the guest room, he said quickly, as though trying to preempt any accusations. Dont overthink things

I interrupted again, my voice steady. Im not overthinking. You two grew up together. Youve always seen her as a sister. You even said the guest room is basically hers, open to her anytime and that she doesnt need my permission to come over. I remember.

Vincent faltered, the fight draining from his posture. When he spoke again, his tone was softer.

Im glad that you can think this way. I really want you and Zoe to get along.

Before I could respond, the doorbell rang. It was the courier I had scheduled.

Vincent finally noticed the piles of boxes Id packed and stacked neatly in the living room.

His expression darkened as he walked over to inspect them.

Claire, what do you mean? he demanded, his voice tight. You dont want all the things I gave you?

I was just about to open my mouth to reply when he reached into one of the boxes and pulled out a small music box. Inside was a spinning figurine of a bride in a white wedding dress.

His hand trembled slightly as he held it up and I noticed his eyes reddening.

Youre throwing this away too? he asked, his voice barely a whisper.

That music box was from years ago, back when we had nothing. He couldnt afford a grand gesture or a ring, but hed given me that little box, promising, One day, I will make you my bride.

I had believed him. But reality gave me a slap in the face.

Love doesnt work when there are three people in the relationship. It was too crowded.

And I didnt want to stay anymore.

To avoid unnecessary drama, I spoke gently, You are overthinking it. Im not throwing these things away. Im letting the professionals do all the refurbishing for me. How could I not want them?

Seeing the calm expression on my face, Vincent visibly relaxed.

Okay, he said, Ill arrange for someone to install a whole new set of cabinets at home to store these things properly.

I nodded. Arent you two heading to work? You should go. I need to catch up on sleep.

With that, I turned and walked toward the bedroom, locking the door behind me before he could say anything else.

***

I tore another page off the countdown calendar when I woke up in the afternoon. There were five days left.

I got a message from my professor, asking me to look for him to discuss the publication of my recent SCI paper, which had just been released in a major journal.

Vincent, however, called out of the blue. I said I had to go to my university and he said he would be right downstairs and send me.

Zoe was already sitting in the passenger seat when I got to the car.

I hesitated for just a second before silently getting into the back.

Zoes laughter broke the silence. Claire, dont be upset. Vincents always let me ride up front. Back when he used to drive my dads car, Id always sit in the passenger seat. They say sitting in the back makes it feel like youre treating the driver like a chauffeur. Its rude, you know? So, I got used to it.

I was not upset. In fact, I smiled warmly. You can sit there if you want.

Vincent glanced at me several times through the rearview mirror, searching for a conversation starter.

On the way here, he began, I saw this article about a med student named Olivia Claire. Apparently, they published a groundbreaking paper that could create enormous value for the country. Funny enough, its in the same field as yours, late time.

I didnt respond. Olivia Claire was actually the pseudonym I used to publish my papera precaution my professor had insisted on for security reasons.

Before Vincent could press further, Zoe turned in her seat, her voice dripping with sweetness.

Claire, youve been studying for so many years, but I havent heard about you achieving anything big like that. She gasped, covering her mouth theatrically. Oh no! I didnt mean it like that. I just say things bluntlyno offense!

Even Vincents gaze turned disdainful.

Claire, he said, his tone patronizing, sometimes you have to accept that theres a difference between people. Youve been running yourself ragged for years, but its just aimless effort. After the wedding, why dont you be a full-time housewife? Ive reached a point in my career where you dont need to work anymore.

I offered a noncommittal response and turned my attention to my phone, replying to my professors messages. Their words no longer bothered me.

***

Two blocks from my university, Zoe asked to be dropped off.

Thanks for the ride, Vincent. Love you! she chirped, winking at me as she stepped out.

Then, winking at me specifically, Sister, I am leaving first.

I looked at the neighbourhoods name and casually asked, This isnt the neighbourhood of our wedding house?

Oh, Vincent replied lightly, shes probably visiting a friend.

I didnt press further.

Sensing my silence, he added, Shes still injured, so I thought Id drop her off on the way. Dont be so petty.

My expression remained calm and I said, Oh, its perfectly normal for an older brother to give his sister a ride. Isnt it?

His words caught in his throat.

***

When we arrived at the university, Vincent pulled a large bouquet of flowers from the trunk and shoved it into my arms.

I know youve been upset these past few days, he said, his tone coaxing. Im sorry, okay? This is me making it up to you.

And if its about the wedding dressyoure right. Lets forget about it. Ill have a re-custom one made for you by a top designer. Hows that?

His face was full of expectation, as though I should feel grateful for his effort.

I glanced at his phone, where he was scrolling through images of extravagant wedding gowns, but my interest had long since faded.

None of it mattered anymore. I was leaving soon.

I gently pushed his phone away and handed the flowers back to him. Pick whatever you like. My professor is waiting for me.

As I turned to walk away, Vincent grabbed my hand, Claire, he said, his voice trembling slightly, whats wrong with you? Whats really going on?

For the first time, his expression was filled with confusion, even a hint of panic and loss.

Whats wrong with me?

What was wrong was that I had already decided to leave. But I didnt want to argue, so I patted Vincents hand gently.

Well talk about it after Im done, okay?

***

My professor was thrilled with the success of my latest paper.

This is incredible work! But... are you sure youre ready for the research institute? Life there can be dull, you know. Experiments and data, day in and day outcan you handle the isolation?

I nodded, the memory of Vincents condescending attitude in the car still fresh in my mind.

I straightened my posture and spoke with quiet determination. Dont worry, Professor. I wont lose your face.

You? He chuckled, shaking his head. Youre one of the besthandpicked for this role by the government itself! Let me be clear: Im the lucky one to have you on my team.

Leaving his office, I spotted my junior colleague scowling in the window.

Whats wrong? I asked.

Miss Claire, she fumed, wasnt that your boyfriend I just saw outside? He was sharing a cup of bubble tea with a woman! Thats so inappropriatedoesnt he care about boundaries? Isnt this basically betrayal?

I smiled faintly. Its fine. Thats his sister.

Her eyebrows shot up. Sister?

I understood her disbelief. Vincent had lost both his parents when he was young and Zoes family had taken pity on him, offering him shelter. Later, when Vincent became successful, he naturally helped Zoe, his so-called sister.

But my junior colleague wasnt convinced. Her indignation only grew. Really funny! Sister? Yeah, right! This is classic green tea behavior. Senior, let me handle this for youIll tear her apart!

I quickly grabbed her arm. Dont act rashly.

After all, Id tried that before. Id argued, fought and accused, only for Vincent to look at me coldly and say, Claire, youre being ridiculous. You, of all people, should understand my relationship with Zoe. Jealousy like this is beneath you.

He was rightjealousy was meaningless. Especially now. I didnt want to stir up any trouble before I left.

So, I told my junior there were still a few days before I left and asked her to help me keep it a secret.

She hesitated. So are you still going through with the wedding?

I shook my head.

No, I said softly. Im leaving. Theres no point.

The words just fell.

Before I could explain further, Vincents voice came from behind me.

Claire, where are you leaving?