He Watched Me Shine Without Him novel Chapter 135

Lina had chased Houston for years, throwing herself into piano, chess, and literature—anything that might help with his insomnia, anything to win his heart. But in the end, he loved someone who didn’t even seem to care for him.

The comparison left her feeling utterly defeated.

“Houston, her coldness only proves she doesn’t love you.”

“That’s fine,” Houston said quietly. “So long as I love her.”

Yet even as he said it, he grew visibly agitated. Instinctively, his hand reached for his cigarette case. He pulled out a cigar with practiced ease and placed it between his lips.

Daniel watched in stunned silence. Sir really does care… and now he’s pretending not to.

He helpfully struck a match, lighting it for Houston.

But Houston immediately turned and glared. “Who told you to do that? Rose doesn’t let me smoke.”

Daniel nearly choked. Then why even put it in your mouth?!

Houston crushed the cigar underfoot with a scowl.

Lina watched this series of ridiculous contradictions with a bleeding heart. Was this really the Houston Clarke—admired, desired, invincible? How had he been reduced to such humility for a woman?

She thought she knew why she lost. And yet… she still couldn’t fully understand it.

…

That day at work, Rose kept drifting off into thought. Thankfully, patient flow was light. Bored and uneasy, she messaged her best friend.

Rose: "Meliora, you there?"

Meliora: "I’m dead."

Rose: "…What happened?"

Meliora: "He’s back."

Rose: "Who?"

Meliora: "Quinton."

Rose’s heart clenched. She remembered the traumatic mess that had been Meliora and Quinton’s relationship.

“I’m coming over right now,” she replied, grabbing her bag and running out the door.

Rose glanced down at the screen. The contact name read ‘Past Life’. Her brows drew together.

“Why are you scared of him? He and his family ruined your life. His mother forced you to abort your baby, and now you can’t have children because of it. You’re the victim. What are you afraid of?”

Rose narrowed her eyes. “Who are you talking to? Can’t even say her name? What, is ‘Meliora’ too hard for your mouth to form?”

A pause.

“Who is this?”

“I’m Rose. You don’t know me, but I know all about you. Meliora used to mention you—back when she still thought you were worth her time.”

“Rose…” Quinton muttered. That name sounded familiar.

“I’ll make it simple,” Rose said. “She doesn’t want to talk to you. Whatever you two had ended five years ago. She’s moved on. She has a new boyfriend now. They’re getting married.”

Quinton’s tone turned lethal. “Tell her I’ll be at Jinxiu Hotel. If she doesn’t come, her father’s company is done for.”

“You’re despicable.”

Quinton sneered. “You’re the first woman who’s dared to call me that, Rose. I’ll remember you.” Then he hung up.

Meliora began pacing, frantic. “What do I do, Rose? His family's huge now. Our company’s nothing in comparison. If he goes after my dad’s business, it’ll collapse in a heartbeat. I have to go.”