Chapter 3

03.

Even though I knew I didn't matter much to her, the disappointment still stung.

"I have a heart condition, Stella. Did you forget that?"

"Oh, it's fine. You went on that Ferris wheel with me last year and you were totally okay," she said dismissively.

I remembered that day. It was the only time I'd ever gone on a ride like that.

She had told me that if I didn't go, it meant I didn't love her.

Despite the doctors' warnings to avoid any adrenaline-heavy activities, I risked it for her.

I ended up in the ICU for three days, hovering between life and death.

Stella didn't even show up at the hospital because she had a press junket.

I had convinced myself she was just busy.

Later, I found out she once skipped a massive concert for her fans just to visit Wynn's grave on his birthday.

Love is never a mystery. It's always obvious who holds the power.

I handed the invitation back to her. Her face darkened immediately.

"Liam, what is this attitude?"

"Don't forget who's paying for your sister Lily's medical bills. If you don't do this show with me, I'll pull the funding for her treatment today."

She wasn't joking. I could see the cold calculation in her eyes.

My heart felt like it was being crushed by a giant fist.

My sister has aggressive leukemia.

I've worked myself to the bone for years to save enough for her transplant.

Now, Stella was using my sister's life as a bargaining chip.

It was the most pathetic, low-down thing she could have done.

"Do whatever you want," I said, turning my back on her.

I walked out the door, ignoring her screaming behind me.

"Liam! Don't you dare! You step out that door and she's off the meds!"

"You're going to regret this!"