I Wiped Out Every Bit of Affection for Him Chapter 2

Over the years, Steve never lacked women throwing themselves at him.

One day it was an actress, the next a model or an influencer.

On the rare occasions his conscience flared up, he would frown and reject them.

But most of the time, I knew the truth: he welcomed them all.

I thought this was just another phase, that he had set his sights on some new face.

Actresses and influencers didn't bother me much anymore.

But this was Joe, the only woman who had ever turned Steve down.

I didn't know her, but over the years, Steve's friends loved to bring up her name to tease him.

The great, wealthy Steve had failed to win over a girl on his first try, making him the butt of their jokes for years.

When people spoke of Joe, they always used words like "aloof" and "proud."

She looked down on his wealth, once telling him: "Don't insult me with your dirty money."

Steve had never met anyone like her, so it made sense that she became his obsession.

I didn't know what to say, standing there in silence.

She was Joe, and against her, I stood no chance.

I murmured softly: "So... we're breaking up, then?"

Steve let out a soft chuckle, leaning down to meet my eyes. "We were never public, Maria. How can we break up?"

"Come on," he muttered, brushing a tear from my cheek. "You didn't lose out here. You got to sleep with me for years. Don't act like the victim."

I always knew we wouldn't last forever.

But hearing him put it so callously still sent a sharp ache through my chest.

He stood straight. "She's proud. If she finds out I've been fooling around with you all these years, she'll be furious."

His gaze swept over me, searching, warning.

Maybe I really was getting older. I just didn't have the energy to fight for him anymore.

A few years ago, I would have thrown a tantrum and fought him over her.

Now, I simply pulled my hand back. "I understand. I'll call a cab and head over to the new place tonight."

I had already noticed that the master bedroom was stripped bare. None of my belongings remained.

"The things in the living room..." I pointed to the decorations. "Just throw them away. They're old anyway. It's time for something new."

Steve followed my gaze, staring at the cozy space.

For a moment, he said nothing.

Then, he opened the door wider. "I'll have my driver take you."

I took a final look at his bare torso, his toned abs, and his lean waist.

I used to think that when the day we parted finally came, I would drag him to bed for one last passionate night.

But that was out of the question now. He loved Joe far more than I had realized.

When the driver arrived, I left carrying only the suitcase from my business trip.

Steve suddenly grabbed my arm, a knowing smirk playing on his lips. "You're acting too calm. Are you playing hard to get, planning to sabotage things behind my back?"

"It wouldn't be the first time you've pulled something like that."

I stared at him for a long, quiet moment. "Don't worry," I said softly. "I won't say a word."

Aside from his close circle of friends, no one even knew we existed.

But he was still uneasy, his brow furrowed with irritation.

"You're not getting any younger. I know plenty of guys. Want me to introduce you to someone so you can settle down?"

I fell silent for a beat, a faint smile touching my lips. "Sure. Make sure to share my contact with them."

Steve's expression darkened at my response.

I didn't look back, stepping into the waiting car.