Time Heals All Wounds By Oliver Thomas 36 Summary
Tanner, despite not being able to stay in the UK permanently due to his assignments and lectures, made a point to fly in every weekend. He never called or messaged but instead waited silently outside the narrator’s building, embodying a tragic romantic figure. His obsessive presence caused tension, especially when Tanner glared at the narrator and Tristan whenever they were together, referring to Tristan dismissively as “another fly buzzing around.”
The narrator considered moving because of Tanner’s behavior but had missed the university housing deadline. However, a room on campus became available, prompting the narrator to think about relocating. Tristan, upon hearing this, expressed his frustration silently but then tried to lighten the mood by offering to cook a healthy hot pot meal. During their meal, Tristan assured the narrator that if Tanner continued to show up, he would handle the situation, implying he would protect the narrator from Tanner’s obsession.
After that, Tanner disappeared for a whole month, leaving only a flood of unwanted messages and photos. Eventually, the narrator deleted Tanner’s number—not because the feelings were gone, but because they had said yes to someone else, signaling a new chapter in their life.
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Chapter 14
Between assignments and lectures. Tanner couldn’t stay in the UK indefinitely–but he still flew in every damn weekend.
He wouldn’t call, wouldn’t message. Just stood silently outside my building like some tragic romantic hero, waiting.
Every time Tristan and I walked out together, Tanner would glare and mutter, “Another fly buzzing around.”
fristan, grocery bag in hand, bumped my shoulder lightly.
Pretty sure he’s calling you garbage, just FYI.”
closed my eyes. “..
Tanner’s obsessive behavior had me seriously considering moving.
‘d missed the uni housing deadline earlier, but a room had recently opened up on campus.
When Tristan found out, he didn’t say a word–just took his frustration out on a poor piece of meat in the kitchen, chopping like it personally offended him.
ve didn’t speak all day. Eventually, he stomped over, still scowling.
Hot pot. You in or not?”
shook my head. “Trying to eat clean.”
e didn’t skip a beat. “I’ll make a lean version. No oil, clear broth, all protein and greens.”
sighed. “Fine.”
ver a simmering pot of minimalist hot pot, Tristan said quietly, “If that idiot keeps showing up, I can take care of it. You shouldn’t have to move because he in’t take a hint.”
How?” I asked.
e just smirked. “Don’t worry about it.”
never found out what he did, but Tanner didn’t come back for a full month.
he only trace of him was the relentless stream of messages–daily updates I never asked for, photos I didn’t open, words that meant nothing.
month later, I finally hit delete on his number.
ot because I was over him.
ut because I’d said yes to someone else.
15:08
Conclusion
The chapter delicately captures the tension between past and present, illustrating how lingering attachments can complicate the path to healing. Tanner’s silent, obsessive presence contrasts sharply with Tristan’s quiet strength and subtle protectiveness, highlighting the emotional tug-of-war the narrator experiences. The decision to move and the eventual deletion of Tanner’s number symbolize a pivotal moment of reclaiming agency and setting boundaries, even amid unresolved feelings.
Ultimately, the chapter conveys a bittersweet acceptance that moving forward often requires difficult choices and emotional resilience. The narrator’s quiet acceptance of Tristan’s support and the tentative step toward a new relationship suggest hope and the possibility of renewal, underscoring the enduring theme that time, with its challenges and changes, can indeed heal wounds.
What to Expect in Next Chapter?
The next chapter promises to delve deeper into the tangled emotions and shifting dynamics between the characters. With Tanner’s obsessive presence finally fading, the tension that once hovered palpably in the air begins to transform, but not without leaving scars. Readers can expect to explore how the protagonist navigates this uneasy peace, especially now that a new relationship has entered the picture, bringing its own set of uncertainties and hopes.
Meanwhile, Tristan’s quiet protectiveness hints at layers of loyalty and perhaps unspoken feelings that might come to the forefront. The simmering undercurrents of jealousy, frustration, and care suggest that the bonds between these characters are far from simple. As the story unfolds, the emotional stakes will likely rise, testing their friendships and forcing difficult choices that could change everything.
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.
