Despite his initial hesitation, Liam found himself drawn to the idea of attending Olivia's literary salon. He missed intellectual conversations, the kind he used to have before his life was consumed by family troubles. He confessed his conflicted feelings to Elara.
"I feel like I should just focus on work and getting my life back on track," he said, "But a part of me really wants to go. I haven't felt this excited about something in ages."
Elara, though still harboring a tinge of jealousy, encouraged him to attend. "You should go, Liam," she said. "It's important to do things that make you happy. And besides," she added with a playful nudge, "you can tell me all about it afterward."
So, the following week, Liam found himself standing nervously outside Olivia's elegant apartment building. He adjusted his tie, took a deep breath, and rang the doorbell.
Olivia greeted him with a warm smile, ushering him into a spacious living room filled with people engaged in animated conversation. The air buzzed with intellectual energy, and Liam felt a thrill of excitement.
He spent the evening discussing literature with Olivia and her guests, debating the merits of various authors, and sharing his own insights. He found himself captivated by Olivia's intellect and charm, and he couldn't help but feel a spark of attraction.
As the evening drew to a close, Olivia pulled Liam aside. "I'm so glad you came," she said, her eyes sparkling. "You're a wonderful addition to our group. I hope you'll come again."
Liam smiled. "I had a great time," he said. "Thank you for inviting me."
He returned home feeling energized and inspired, but also conflicted. He knew that he was developing feelings for Olivia, and he felt guilty for betraying Elara's trust.
The next day, he met Elara for coffee, eager to share his experience. But as he described the literary salon and his interactions with Olivia, he noticed a cloud of sadness forming in Elara's eyes.
"You seemed to really enjoy yourself," Elara said, her voice strained.
"I did," Liam admitted. "But it doesn't change how I feel about you, Elara. You're the one I care about."
Elara looked at him, her eyes filled with doubt. "Are you sure about that, Liam?" she asked. "Because it sounds like you're falling for Olivia."
Liam hesitated, unsure of what to say. He knew that Elara was right, that he was drawn to Olivia. But he also knew that he cared deeply for Elara, that she was the one who had pulled him out of the darkness and given him hope.
"I don't know," he said finally, his voice filled with confusion. "I'm so confused, Elara. I don't know what I want."
Elara's eyes filled with tears. "Then maybe," she said, her voice trembling, "maybe we shouldn't see each other for a while. Maybe you need to figure out what you want before you hurt both of us."
And with that, she stood up and walked away, leaving Liam sitting alone, his heart filled with regret.