And, unbelievably, Millie was still in the picture.

From now on, he was officially off the market, belonging to another woman.

The realization hit her like a tidal wave, and she felt a bitter taste in her mouth, her eyes slightly reddening.

Even though she half-expected it, the reality felt Like a cruel blow.

Perhaps this was the severing of the last thread of hope, the death knell for any possibility between them.