Laura’s Victory Second Chance

Chapter 22

Robert’s face was set, his eyes intense and a little frightening. Laura braced for an outburst, but instead, he surprised her with a proposal.

Laura recalled, in her past life, Robert had planned to propose during her coming–of–age party. That never happened because she’d been humiliated and sidelined. Now, Easton’s meddling had turned an old dream into reality.

Robert had always been fond of Laura. She was kind, and empathetic, and had once rescued him. He’d vowed to propose when she turned eighteen. But things had spiraled out of control. His proposal now was more about pride than love. He couldn’t stand the idea of someone else claiming Laura–she was his, just as in her past life, when he believed she loved him without question.

But now, the girl who used to follow him everywhere had changed, and Robert couldn’t handle that.

“Lau, I promised we’d get engaged when you turned eighteen. I remember that promise. Today’s your birthday, and I’m thrilled–I can finally make good on my word. Lau, will you marry me?” He presented a diamond ring, its stone flecked with a crimson hint.

A girl murmured, “Wow, Laura’s got some serious luck! First, that rich man is into her, and now Robert’s popping the question!”

“Can’t blame them. Laura is stunning,” another added.

“And she’s linked to the Godfreys,” a guy noted.

Olivia had schemed to prevent this proposal, but her plans crumbled before they could even take shape. That diamond glinted mockingly, a painful reminder of her failure.

Olivia had claimed she’d stay out of their relationship, but deep down, she believed she had a place in Robert’s heart. He’d charmed her, and now it felt like a cruel joke.

Robert had been sure he could win Laura back, but seeing that rich man’s interference sparked panic. Laura had accepted that man’s affection, and that meant he was about to lose her. In a desperate move, he proposed, hoping to salvage their relationship.

But Laura’s eyes showed no joy, only a cool detachment. “Robert, didn’t I make it clear we’re through? What are you even doing?”

Looking into her eyes, Robert saw not love, but contempt and hate. But he couldn’t understand why she would hate him.

“Lau, I know I’ve been distant, and I haven’t been the boyfriend you deserve. I’m sorry–I messed up. Please don’t be mad,” Robert said, his voice cracking a bit, a sign of his wavering confidence.

The girls nearby cooed, “Aww, Robert’s such a sweetheart!”

“If it were me, I’d say yes so fast,” one gushed.

“But didn’t Laura just get that royal heirloom? It looks like she’s made her pick,” another pointed out.

“Right, eighteen birthday gifts–how could you compete with that? Robert’s chances are slim,” a guy added.

As Robert spoke, memories rushed through Laura’s mind.

“Robby, there’s a new movie. Wanna catch it this weekend?” she’d asked

“Can’t. You should take your friend,” he’d replied.

“Robby, when you say you can’t, it’s ‘cause you’re with Olivia, isn’t it?” she’d pressed.

“Well, since you know, I won’t lie. Laura, I have feelings for your sister,” he’d admitted.

“Look me in the eye and tell me you don’t love me,” she’d challenged.

“I didn’t love you then, don’t now, and won’t in the future,” he’d said coldly.

“Robby, don’t go! I love you! What if you leave me?” she’d pleaded.”

She recalled screaming, “Robby, I’m scared! The fire is huge. Help me,

please!”

“Laura, how could you be so cruel? That’s your sister!” he’d accused.

“Trust me, Robby, I didn’t push Olivia,” she’d insisted.

“Stop lying! Olivia’s the sweet one; you’re the snake. Laura, you’re asking for it!” he’d retorted.

“It hurts, Robby! I’m in so much pain! You believe me, right? Would you even cry if I died?” she’d asked, her heart breaking

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3:21 PM ·

Chapter 22

Laura clutched her chest, feeling adrift. Remembering how he’d treated her was maddening. She’d endured that pain because she loved him, but now, with her love gone, reflecting on it made her want to travel back in time and slap herself. There were other guys, after all. The Sharpes were toxic, but her own naivety had been her biggest enemy.

Swallowing her anger, she responded coolly, “Robert, we’re history. Everyone here can vouch for that.”

Robert had thought a few sweet words would bring her back around. After all, Laura had always been gentle and submissive around him—she had never gone against him. He felt a bit frustrated. “So you found someone new and decided you don’t need me anymore? Laura, you’re better than this.”

From the sidelines, Olivia piped up, fanning the flames. “Laura, Robby’s crazy about you. Even with that wealthy guy in the mix, Robby’s willing to look past your game–playing. How can you toy with his feelings like this?”

Her remarks put Laura on the spot, the crowd’s anger palpable. Cheaters weren’t taken lightly here.

“Unbelievable, Laura’s such a bitch!” a girl exclaimed.

“That’s why she moved on so fast–she had a plan B.”

“Robert’s too good for this. He’s still ready to forgive and forget. Where do you find a guy like that?”

“I always said Laura wasn’t so nice. You didn’t listen, did you? She’s just a backstabber. After all the Sharpes did for her, she shows no gratitude, just chasing after someone richer to dump Robert.”

“She’s young, but her heart’s as twisted as they come. What a waste of a pretty face.”

“How else do you snag a guy? Maybe she’s with some sugar daddy–who else has that kind of pull? Older guys eat up her type!”

“Finished?” Laura’s voice was icy as she glanced around, ready to strike back.