Clearly, Marleen was reluctant. She turned, tears streaming down her face.

"Laraine, just let me borrow them for a few days. Soon, I won't have any more opportunities to wear them..." she said pitifully.

"No!" I spat out the words through gritted teeth.

Having decided to break up with Alfred, I didn't want any further entanglements with him or her. Naturally, I wouldn't lend her my things either.

Alfred looked at Marleen with pity, his tone filled with resolute hatred, and said, "Laraine, I never thought you could be so heartless. You want to break up, fine. You can keep the $100,000, and the ring is mine."

Saying this, he...