As soon as Karen left, Stella immediately slouched in her chair, all pretense of poise gone. Queenie watched her lazy posture, smiling and shaking her head, but said nothing.

“He keeps pestering the doctors about your condition every day, but he won’t come see you. How did I never notice how awkward he is?” Stella’s words drew a sigh from Alessia.

She remembered waking up and hearing that Cole had burst into tears in front of everyone. He must have been mortified afterward, because he’d been avoiding everyone ever since–even Alessia. He didn’t even have the courage to face her. Instead, he’d only dare to slip quietly into her hospital room in the dead of night, keeping vigil by her side while the world slept.

Of course, Alessia knew Cole was wandering the hospital halls every day. She figured he’d show up once he got himself together, but she hadn’t expected him to stay away for three whole days.

“Just… don’t mention it to him again, okay?” Alessia said, instinctively wanting to protect Cole.

“Don’t worry, we’re not that oblivious,” Stella replied, waving her hand dismissively.

She made it look easy, acting carefree, but only Justin knew how many times Stella had cried late at night over Alessia’s ordeal. She was in no position to mock Cole for struggling with his feelings.

“But he can’t keep hiding forever,” Queenie said, voicing what they were all thinking.

“It’s fine. I have a solution,” Alessia replied, lips pressed tightly together, eyes glinting with resignation.

Queenie and Stella exchanged a glance and shrugged. There was nothing more to

say.

the gentle beeping of

bedside and gazed at her for a long moment,

10:40

Chapter 481

this time,

darkness, making his heart thud painfully

chest.

breath, hoping she

come here.” There was no trace of drowsiness in her tone; she

awake.

his lips

me forever? I fought so hard to come back

hint of vulnerability undid him

pitch–black room–where Alessia couldn’t possibly see him–Cole straightened, head hung low like a

his

won’t you see me? You’ve been avoiding me for three

I come here every day,” Cole insisted, trying to

worked so hard to wake up for you, and now that I have, you’re nowhere to be found. Did you want me

over and gently

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