The Substitute Bride

Anthony went to the counter to pay the bill. When he reached the exit, he caught sight of Lisa waiting for him in front of the restaurant. He got his car and waited for Lisa to get in. He drove in complete silence until they reached Lisa's apartment. She didn't get out immediately. She turned to look at Anthony with concern and asked gingerly," What are you planning to do with your feelings for her?"

Anthony opened the window and lit a cigarette. "It's my business. It has nothing to do with her or you," he replied in a cold tone.

"I…" stammered Lisa. "I'm only asking because I care for you." She then faltered, her face looking pained," Anthony, you and her… you know it's impossible!"

"I know. I'm aware of that," Anthony nodded grimly. He knew from the beginning that he didn't stand a chance with Autumn.

"I have met her husband," Lisa opened her mouth. Lisa stared at Anthony thoughtfully, 'Now he looks utterly dejected. His face looked grim and hopeless, but I have to fight the urge to hug him. I know I'm too harsh with him when he already seems upset. But for our sake, I must let him give up that hopeless thought.'

"When Mrs. Lu looked at him, it was obvious that she's in love with her husband. No one can destroy their relationship, not even you," she said warningly, her eyes flashing. "You know what? You'll just end up being hurt and disappointed," she continued, looking at him steadily. "I can help you forget her, just give me another chance," Lisa almost begged.

"Enough!" Anthony said in a low harsh voice, his eyes piercing her. "It's none of your business. I don't need your help," he said coldly.

He cast her a scathing look as he put out his cigarette on his car ashtray with force. "If you have so much free time, devote yourself in your own affairs. Even if I can't have Autumn, I will never get back with you. So don't waste both of our time. Just leave me alone."

"Why not?" Lisa felt hurt but was still unwilling to give up. "

your wedding as soon as possible. I can't wait to see my great-grandson," Craig voiced his opinion enthusiastically.

"Grandpa, I told you we're just friends," Anthony said exasperatedly, scowling. "I want to concentrate on my career, nothing else."

"You…" His grandfather was rendered speechless. "Are you trying to drive me crazy? Tell me what kind of girl you are looking for and I will find her for you. I don't believe I can't find a good wife for you if I put my mind to it," he said, losing his patience.

He thought of Autumn all of a sudden. "Look at your grandpa Arthur's granddaughter. She married young, and now she's about to be a mother. You should learn from her."

Anthony remained silent when he heard Craig mention Autumn. He took a deep breath before saying calmly," I will take care of my affairs, grandpa. Please don't worry about me. If I find a girl, I will definitely bring her to you immediately."

After a pause, he went on," It's late, grandpa. You should go to bed now. Thank you for calling. Good night."

"Anthony, hey, are you listening? Anthony!" Craig's voice thundered on his ears. Anthony felt bad hanging up on his grandfather, but he had enough. He threw himself resignedly on the couch, his mind troubled.

'I can't go on like this any longer, ' he muttered to himself.