Chapter 780

“Lacey,” Jake said, his voice low and sincere. “I had no idea you risked so much for me. I promise, once I get back…”

Jake hesitated and then continued, his voice smooth, “Whatever your heart desires, Lacey, I can provide it. Money, influence, or anything you want. Just name it. I could even help you establish your own hospital or clinic.” Lacey’s initial excitement quickly evaporated, replaced by a wave of disappointment. Was that the best he could offer? Material possessions held no allure for her. All she craved was companionship, an end to the loneliness that had plagued her for so long.

But those words remained trapped in Lacey’s throat. She knew voicing her true desires would only push Jake further away. Jake, with his unwavering devotion to his wife, would undoubtedly reject her. His heart belonged to his wife entirely. How she wished she could have his devotion.

Jake pondered his situation. Inaction was not an option. He needed to make a move, preferably contact Edgar, before Clayton’s return.

With newfound resolve, Jake decided to be upfront with Lacey. “I must return to Burmoos. Thank you for taking me in during this period.”

Lacey’s heart sank. “You’re going back? Now?” she questioned, anxiety creeping into her voice. “But I thought you said it wasn’t the right time.”

Jake’s expression was as impassive and cold as the night that enveloped them. “I can’t avoid it forever. I might as well confront it head-on.”

Lacey’s voice was firm, despite the tremor of anxiety that ran through her. “Then I’m going with you.” Jeanette, her tears freshly dried, spoke up with unexpected determination. “I want to go too,” she declared.

Jake’s brow furrowed in disapproval. “This isn’t a holiday,” he said sharply. “We have no connection. You shouldn’t tag along with me. If you’re concerned I won’t honor my promise, I can write you a formal agreement right now.”

Lacey’s face drained of color, her lips quivering with a mixture of hurt and anger. “Do you really think that’s why we want to come with you?” Her voice cracked with emotion. “Jake, what kind of person do you think I am?” Each word amplified Lacey’s sense of injustice and betrayal. Tears welled up in her eyes, threatening to spill over.

Jake watched as Lacey’s tears flowed, a flicker of surprise crossing his face before hardening into a frown. He fought back the urge to snap at her and tell her to stop that infernal crying. Jake had always despised it when women wept in his presence. Kallie, of course, was the sole exception.

Now, as Lacey’s tears fell, Jake found himself enduring her outburst. After all, she had saved his life. The least he could do was show a little patience. He pushed down the irritation rising within him and forced his voice to soften. “Miss Payne, I didn’t intend to upset you. But if you follow me to Burmoos, you’ll be putting yourself in danger. There’s no need for you to risk your safety for my sake.”

Lacey’s tears subsided. She stubbornly averted her gaze, her heart pounding in her chest. Could it be that he genuinely cared? Lacey declared, her voice thick with emotion, “My sister and I are not afraid of any risks.”

Lacey had regained her composure. “Jeanette and I can’t stay here forever. Our future lies with you, in Burmoos. Besides, Jeanette worries about you being all alone.”

Jeanette nodded vigorously. “Yes, Jake,” she chimed in. “I’m worried you’ll get hurt. We’ll both worry.”

Jake’s gaze fell upon Jeanette, and for a fleeting moment, he saw Elma’s image superimposed on the young girl. He sighed, resigned. “Very well then. Have it your way.” Jake understood Lacey’s desire to tag along, but he had already made up his mind. Once he had settled his affairs in Burmoos, he would establish a hospital for Lacey. It was the most fitting way he could think of to repay his debt to her. Besides, Lacey was more than capable of running it. It would be a shame for her medical talent to go to waste.

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Message from Noah: Happy Sunday, everyone! Wishing you a day full of joy, peace, and blessings. Enjoy! God loves you and Noa wishes you the best. (ɔO‿=)ɔ ♥

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