Wish I Never Met You Chapter 3 Part 1
CHAPTER 3 · PART ONE
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I opened the door, and Gabby was sprawled on the couch watching Pokémon. She glanced at the clock before turning to me, her face breaking into a bright smile.
“I thought you wouldn’t be coming back tonight.”
“I wouldn’t do that,” I said, plopping beside her on the couch.
“How was the date?”
I stretched lazily, my gaze drifting to the TV. “It was okay, I guess.”
“Only okay?”
I took a deep breath. “I have to ask you something important.”
Gabby raised an eyebrow. “What’s that?”
“Did you submit any of your artwork to Artwise Art School?”
Her face paled. “How did you know? Did Sebastian tell you? That traitor.”
So it was true.
“Why didn’t you tell me yourself, Gabby?”
“Because… I didn’t want to do it. I just wanted to see how my artwork would measure up.”
She was lying, and it stung.
“So you don’t love it enough to pursue it?”
Her eyes brightened for a moment before dimming. “Nope. I’m still not sure.”
“I don’t want to pressure you,” I said gently. “But Momma’s here if you want to attend that school.”
She shook her head. “I checked the school fees online—it’s hella expensive.”
“And I’m telling you, I can afford it.”
Her gaze sharpened. “Just how do you plan to do that?”
My mind raced. Higher-paying clients. A different agency. Seth Baker.
Six months of hell was survivable—if it meant Gabby could chase her dreams.
“Mom,” Gabby said sharply. “I asked you a question.”
“Anything I can to make sure you pursue your dream.”
“I don’t want you doing that. You’re already doing so much.”
She had no idea how far I’d go for her.
“Don’t do anything stupid, Mom.”
“You shouldn’t worry about that.”
She squinted. “That means you’re about to do something stupid.”
“You might not like it.”
She curled against me, resting her head on my chest.
“I’d kiss the devil’s ass for your sake,” I murmured.
Silence settled between us.
Then she whispered, “I hope you won’t regret whatever you’re about to do.”
Maybe I would. But if it was for her, every sacrifice would be worth it.