On the way back, Bella rested her head on Asherâs shoulder, feeling sleepy. In reality, she was curious
about what Declan had said to Justin.
She decided against it after some consideration. Whatever was said. was most likely not pleasant.
Declan may seem gentle, but his words could be even sharper and more brutal than hers. She didnât
want to hear what he said about Justin.
It was not out of pity for that jerk. Rather, it would be extremely disheartening to witness the person she
once loved with all her heart. getting belittled by the person closest to her.
âAre you asleep, Bella?â Asher suddenly asked in a gentle voice.
âNo, Ash. Do you want to talk about something?â Bella blinked in surprise.
âBella, have you noticed that Steven and Amelia are a little strange lately?â Asher asked with a faint
smile. âI might be mistaken, but I always get the impression that there is a subtle tension between
them.â
âWhat do you mean by âa subtle tensionâ?â
Bellaâs jaw almost dropped as she stared at her brother, her eyes wide. and watery. âHave you had too
much to drink, Ash? Are you joking?â
âI never make jokes about romantic relationships. Didnât you notice that their faces turned red and their
expressions turned strange wher
Steve supported Amelia? Especially Amelia, the way she looked Steve⦠How should I put it? It is
exactly like how you used to look at Justin.â
Bellaâs fair eyelids drooped as she was rendered speechless. âAsh, why are you dragging me into this
with Amelia?â
Although Bella was complaining, in her heart, she was secretly thinking about Steven and Ameliaâs
relationship. When did this happen? How did she not notice anything?
âSteven is not young anymore. Heâs already thirty years old. Since graduating from university, he has
been working diligently as my secretary.â Asher continued, âSince I assigned him to assist you, he
hasnât uttered a single complaint. Year after year, he has worked tirelessly, rarely taking proper breaks.â
Asher put his arms around Bellaâs shoulders, his tone sincere and earnest. âBella, if he wishes to
pursue a romantic relationship and experience a different life, I hope you can support Steve.â
âWow! Steve is actually playing games behind my back! They say he looks like a cute puppy, but how
come his character doesnât match his appearance, huh?â Bella fiercely punched the car window with a
delicate fist, gritting her teeth. âMen are all the same! He falls in love with Amelia right after confessing
his deep feelings to me. I only have. one younger sister! If he has any inappropriate thoughts about
Amelia, I swear, I will exile him to an African safari as a snack for the lions
âDid Steve confess to you?â Asher raised an intrigued eyebrow, slightly surprised.
âYeah, but I rejected him.â Bella had always been unapologetic in front of her eldest brother and openly
expressed her emotions. âItâs not that heâs not good enough. Itâs just that I donât have any romantic
feelings for him. Besides, Iâve been through a divorce and have no intentions to date again. Iâd rather
not waste his time.â
Bella added, âBut how could he suddenly develop an interest in Amelia? The seamless transition
worries me a lot.â
âSteve is not that kind of person, Bella. As for your concerns about the seamless transition, maybe
Steve has been around you for too long. You were both his first and unrequited love.â
âHe has grown accustomed to treating you with care and kindness, so itâs possible that he
unconsciously developed feelings for Amelia.
He might not even be aware of it himself,â Asher earnestly shared his thoughts.
âWhat? How is it possible not to know if youâve fallen for someone?â
Bella frowned, her expression carrying a hint of skepticism.
âEmotions are the most intricate, tangled, and complex thing in this world,â Asher said, his deep eyes
narrowing thoughtfully. âFor example, thirteen years later, Justin once again saved your life. When. you
face him now, can you truly distinguish between love and hatred?
Can you guarantee that your feelings toward him are purely resentment and hatred, without a trace of
love?â
Bella felt a stab in her chest, her breath becoming heavier.
She recalled the eventful and dangerous night. Justin carried her over a long distance in the pouring
rain despite his heavy injuries.
To keep her warm in the dark and damp cave, he took off almost all his clothes to keep her warm. The
memories made her feel warm insade