Chapter 963



Calvin held his ground, his tone unwavering.

“Then maybe it’s time to stop. Our mom deserves someone who really values her.”

Sophie offered a rueful smile.

“Calvin, over the years, plenty of men have shown interest in our mom, some far more remarkable than others. But she hasn’t wanted anyone, and she’s not happy either. The three of us only want her to find happiness, right? While our dad’s recent actions are questionable, remember that he was genuinely excited about having you and Elma. He can be a good father. I just don’t understand why he’s changed so much.”

Calvin took her words in, yet his spirits remained low. He bowed his head, lost in thought, as the dinner came to an uneasy close.

Later, as Elma settled in Jake’s car to ride back to the Reeves family home, she kept leaning out the window to wave at Kallie and the others. Jake, concerned for her well-being, swiftly pulled her back, chastising her.

“You need to stop taking risks like that. It’s too easy to get sick.”

Elma pouted, her eyes brimming with tears as she lamented, “But I just miss my mom, my brother, and my sister. If a day passes without seeing them, I’ll dissolve into tears. Dad, why can’t we dine with them nightly? Without them, my heart feels so hollow that even my medicine tastes bitter.”

Jake’s expression darkened, his forehead creasing as he mulled over her heartfelt plea, yet he offered no immediate dismissal.

Nearby, Lacey’s patience finally snapped, and she could no longer stay still. Leaning forward with earnest, she spoke softly, trying to bridge the emotional gap.

Explore more fiction on gαℓησν𝒆𝓁s․𝒸𝓸𝗺 “Elma, it’s entirely understandable to feel this turmoil. The medication I’ve given you could make you emotional. But I can adjust the dosage. Just remember, this shadow over your mood springs from the medication, not just your yearning for family.”

Elma turned sharply toward Lacey, her gaze icy and her voice laced with annoyance.

“My mood sours because you’re in my sight. Once you leave, everything will feel lighter. You’re truly wearing on my last nerve.”

Lacey immediately put on a pitiful face, her reply laden with mock regret.

“Elma, you’re right. I apologize for my overbearing presence.”

Jake, witnessing this tense exchange, gave Elma a look of exasperated concern, his tone laced with gentle reproach.

“Elma, where has your graciousness gone? Lacey is more than just your doctor. She’s here to aid you. A little politeness wouldn’t hurt.”

Elma snorted dismissively, her eyes flashing defiantly.

“Is she truly worthy of my politeness?”

Upon hearing this, Jake felt a surge of irritation. It wasn’t merely that Elma had been impolite to Lacey; rather, it was Elma’s longstanding temper that troubled him. Despite her time spent with Kallie, Elma seemed unchanged. Had Kallie made no effort to temper Elma’s fiery disposition? What if Elma’s temper caused trouble when he and Kallie weren’t there to intervene? What if it led to danger?

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