My boyfriend, Mason Stone, completely forgot our anniversary. To make up for it, he planned a beach date. I went all out— flawless makeup, a sexy swimsuit and was ready to bask in the sun. But when we got there, Mason introduced a new guest, "Jessica, this is Naomi Sutton, a high school classmate who just returned from studying abroad. I invited her to join us."
Naomi playfully hit Mason’s shoulder and teased, "Mason’s been so tight-lipped. He never mentioned he has a girlfriend. Looks like he really treasures you!" Mason’s eyes were warm, but he wore a slightly disappointed smile.
I stood there, stunned, as if struck by lightning. Naomi’s face was all too familiar. Just a week earlier, I’d had to borrow Mason’s computer for an urgent work task because mine had broken down. While using his computer, I accidentally clicked on a hidden file labeled “Naomi.” To my shock, it was filled with tens of thousands of photos of the same girl, all taken five years ago. In one group photo, Mason’s gaze was fixated on Naomi's profile—just like it was now: lingering and affectionate.