That's the way I love you

12

Becky and Nop were looking forward to their anniversary dinner, and Becky had taken extra effort to dress up and look her best. She wanted to impress Nop and make the evening memorable. As they arrived at the restaurant, they were greeted warmly and led to their table.

Becky: (smiling) This place looks lovely, Nop. I'm so happy to be spending our anniversary together.

Nop: (grinning) Me too, Becky. You look stunning tonight. I'm lucky to have you.

As they began their dinner, the atmosphere was filled with joy and laughter. They reminisced about the good times they had shared and made plans for their future together. However, Becky couldn't help but notice that Nop's phone was constantly buzzing with notifications.

Becky: (curious) Nop, is everything okay with your phone? It seems like you're getting a lot of notifications.

Nop: (nervously) Oh, it's probably just work stuff. I'm sorry, I should have put it on silent.

Becky: (doubtful) Work stuff on our anniversary? Are you sure it's just work?

Nop: (defensively) Yes, Becky, I promise. It's just some urgent emails and calls that I need to attend to.

Becky felt a pang of annoyance and suspicion. It seemed odd to her that Nop's work would be so urgent and demanding on their special night. She decided to give him the benefit of the doubt and not push the issue further.

Becky: (trying to be understanding) Okay, if it's really important, you can take care of it. I don't want to interfere with your work.

Nop: (grateful) Thanks, Becky. I really appreciate your understanding.

As the night went on, Nop's phone continued to distract him, and Becky couldn't help but feel disappointed. She had been looking forward to this special evening, but it seemed like Nop's attention was divided.

Becky: (trying to hide her frustration) Nop, is everything okay? You seem so preoccupied with your phone.

Nop: (apologetic) I'm sorry, Becky. It's just that work has been really hectic lately, and I can't afford to miss anything important.

Becky: (concerned) I understand that work is important, but it's our anniversary, and I was hoping we could have this time to ourselves.

Nop: (remorseful) You're right, Becky. I should be more present in the moment with you. I'll try to put my phone away.

Becky appreciated Nop's admission and hoped that he would be more present for the rest of the evening. However, as they continued with their dinner, Nop's phone continued to buzz, and he kept glancing at it.

Becky: (frustrated) Nop, I can't help but feel like something is off. Are you sure it's just work that's keeping you so preoccupied?

Becky tried to hide her disappointment as Nop excused himself from the table to answer yet another call. She watched as he spoke hurriedly and nervously into the phone, his facial expressions giving away his unease.

As Nop picked up his phone, he noticed the name "Maya" flashing on the screen. His heart sank, and his mind raced with conflicting emotions. He knew he shouldn't be talking to Maya, but he also felt a sense of responsibility towards her. He excused himself from the table and took the call away from Becky's earshot.

Nop: (whispering) Maya, I told you I can't talk right now. It's our anniversary, and I'm with Becky.

Maya: (feigning distress) Nop, I'm really not feeling well. I need you here with me.

Nop: (hesitating) Maya, I can't just leave Becky like this. She's my girlfriend, and we're celebrating our anniversary tonight.

Maya: (insisting) But Nop, I need you. I can't handle this alone. Please come over.