The Shadows of the Past

The Shadows of the Past
Ashton’s POV

One of the boldest decisions I ever made was turning down a partnership with Sandra. I knew it had great potential, something worth pursuing. But her aggressiveness unsettled me. I couldn’t let her slip back into my life, not even an inch deeper.

That morning, she showed up again. Bold makeup, and a dress that I thought revealed too much. The low neckline drew attention she clearly intended, the short skirt making her appear far too deliberate. If she believed her appearance would sway me, she couldn’t be more wrong.

“Are you really refusing our deal? God, Ashton, since when did you lose your instinct and stop being professional?” Sandra glared at me, her face written with frustration.

“Yes. I have to refuse anything that ties me to you,” I replied calmly.

She folded her arms and let out a smirk.

“So you truly want me out of your life? You’re rejecting me?” Her eyes widened.

“Sandra… you left my life long ago. Without a word, you abandoned everything. And now you come back, forcing yourself into a life that has already survived without you. I can’t allow that. My love belongs only to Lily, my wife.”

Her smile curved into something bitter. “How can you say that? You once told me I was the only woman you’d ever love. Forever. Do memories mean so little to you?”

I drew a breath, steadying the rush in my chest. I couldn’t be cruel to her, yet her persistence was exhausting.

“Time changes everything, Sandra. Bury those memories, let them go. They’re nothing but the past.” I made sure my words landed sharp, leaving her no room to twist them.

“I can’t erase them, Ashton. They live with me, they shape the way I carry on. How can you ask me to forget so easily?” Her voice rose.

I exhaled again, this time meeting her eyes with greater firmness. “Wake up, Sandra. I am married now, and I will never betray Lily. The past is nothing but memory, lesson, history. The present and the future are all that matter.”

I saw her eyes glisten, as if tears threatened to fall. Time had changed her, yes. She had always been ambitious, but not to this level of obsession. Back then, she knew when to stop. Now, she was relentless.

“You’ll regret this, Ashton. I’ll prove I’m better than Lily. One day you’ll realize I’m the only one you truly love.” With a sharp turn, she stormed out, the sound of her heels striking the floor like thunder.

I shook my head. Why do people cling to someone they were never meant to chase? What has become of everyone these days?

I shouldn’t waste my thoughts on this. Work was far more important, and I had to keep my focus.



Lily’s POV

The classroom felt warmer today, unlike yesterday’s chill. Daniel was teaching our class this time. After finishing his lecture on developmental theories, he invited us into a discussion.

His gaze swept across the room. I had to admit, he was different when he stood in front of us.

“We’ve talked about Piaget’s cognitive development theory,” Daniel said. “Now, how do we apply it in real life? Lily…” his eyes found me, “What do you think?”

“Um… I think Piaget’s theory can be applied when teaching or guiding children and adolescents. For example, in the preoperational stage, they’re still egocentric. We can’t impose adult logic on them. We have to adjust to their stage of thinking. Like when they use wooden blocks as cars, or pretend to be doctors or teachers—it shows their ability to think symbolically.”

“Excellent point, Lily.” Daniel smiled, followed by a light applause from him and my classmates.

“Anyone else? Which developmental theory do you find more relevant to real life?”

Robby raised his hand.

“Yes, Michael, go ahead.”

“I prefer Vygotsky’s theory. Children can’t develop on their own; they grow through social interaction.”

“Good insight, Michael. I want all of you to write an essay on how these theories can be applied in real life. That’s all for today, thank you.” Daniel’s smile widened as he looked around the room.

“Thank you, Professor. Have a great day,” Robby replied with his usual cheer.

One by one, my classmates left. I stayed behind, gathering my books. Daniel remained seated, but then rose and walked toward me.

“Lily…”

“Yes, Professor?”

“Daniel. When it’s just the two of us, call me Daniel.”

I smiled. “Alright, Daniel.”

“Seeing your strong academic performance and how active you are in class discussions, I have an offer for you.”

I furrowed my brows. “An offer?”

“Would you like to be my research assistant for an upcoming project?”

I froze for a moment. “But I’m only a freshman. Am I even qualified?”

“That’s not a problem, Lily. I believe in your ability. Think of it as an investment in your future. I’m confident you can achieve great things.” His voice was soft, yet carried a weight, almost coaxing me toward yes.

“Take your time, Lily. Opportunities like this don’t always come twice. I may not have known you well back when you were in high school with my sister, but I often heard her talk about you. The truth is, she was jealous of your intelligence that’s why she couldn’t stand you.”

I froze at his words. Memories of Michelle’s cruel treatment back in high school came rushing back to me.

“I’ll think about it, Daniel.”

“Good. Take your time. Once you’re sure, come to my office with your answer.” He gave me another smile. This time, it felt personal, not professional.

Daniel left the classroom, while I stood in silence, mulling over his offer. It was an incredible opportunity for my academic path. But without Ashton’s approval, I couldn’t say yes.

Suddenly, my phone buzzed. A message from an unknown number.

Hi Lily, it’s Sandra. Do you have time today? I’d like to meet. There’s something I need to talk about.

I frowned. Sandra wanted to meet me?