My heart felt like it was being squeezed.
Just like Gregory had said, it was something subconscious, an inexplicable feeling from nowhere.
Seeing the sadness in his eyes, I found myself impulsively tiptoeing, reaching up to ruffle his hair.
But halfway through, I snapped back to reality, my hand frozen mid-air as I met his deep eyes, whispering soothingly, âGregory, she wouldnât blame you.â
There was a brief spark in his eyes, which faded as I hesitated. âYouâre not her. How would you know what sheâs thinking?â
âIâve been through something similar,â I admitted with a bitter taste in my voice. âI had a good life, then suddenly lost my parents and had to fend for myself, striving and struggling to survive.â
I looked back at him, offering a gentle smile. âIf I were her, I wouldnât blame you. And... I believe she wouldnât either.â
People whoâve had it tough tend to empathize more with others.
His years of waiting were proof enough of his dedication.
He seemed touched, his usual sharp edges blunted. âHave these years been hard for you?â
âWhen I was younger, yes.â
I took a deep breath, glancing around the room filled with a strangely familiar ambiance, and chuckled, âBut over time, I got used to it. These past few years, living lavishly with the Ferguson family, I can hardly say Iâve had it tough.â
Gregory eyed me. âSo, are you happy every day?â
I let out a wry laugh, stepping into the room. âPlease, most people are just trying their best to live. How can one be happy every day?â
âIs that so?â
âAnd you? Are you happy?â
Gregory followed me out of the room, closing the door behind him and shooting me a glance. âYou know the answer.â
He wasnât happy. Probably hadnât been since Lilliana disappeared.
âOh,â I shrugged, not pushing the conversation further.
He led me towards Ramonaâs room. âRamona wants you to stay here. But if youâd rather stay at a hotel, I can talk to her.â
âNo need,â I shook my head. âIâd like to stay and keep her company.â
Maybe I enjoyed being with Ramona because I never knew my grandparents' love.
It didnât feel awkward; it felt warm and comforting.
...
Life for Gregory was busier back in Vista Town than in RiverCity.
He left in the afternoon after receiving a phone call.
Once he was out of sight, Ramona turned to me with a meaningful look. âChild, do you have certain feelings for Greg?â
Her question caught me off guard, and I hurriedly denied, âNo.â
Ramona was perceptive. âIs it that you donât think about it, or youâre afraid to?â
I looked down at the neatly laid wooden tiles on the ground, at a loss for words.
I hadnât thought about it.
After my divorce, all I wanted was a peaceful life. Thoughts of love and affection hadnât crossed my mind.
Maybe... there were moments when Gregory had stirred something in me, but I always quashed those feelings instantly.
Ramona patted my shoulder, urging me to be honest. âTell me the truth. Donât hold back just because Iâm Lillianaâs grandmother. Greg has been faithful to Lilliana and the Myers family for over twenty years. Now, I want him to be true to himself.â
After a moment of silence, I replied, âI havenât thought about it, and Iâm afraid to. Besides, heâs in love with Lilliana. Weâre better off as friends.â
âAfraid to...â She paused, then choosing to ignore my latter words, focused on my hesitancy. âIs it because youâve been through a divorce?â
Surprised, I looked up. âYou knew?â
Lost Me, Gained Regret (Jane and Bryant Ferguson)
ï¤Chapter 337 His Charming Wife ï¤Chapter 10 Dominant Boss: Call Me Hubby, My Dear ï¤Chapter 250 Finn Shows up Amidst Many Obstructions