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.

in darkness. The only sound was the gentle beeping of the monitors. Alessia lay still, looking for all the world as if she were

crept inside, quietly closing the door behind him, careful not to make a sound. He walked over to Alessia’s bedside and gazed at her for a long moment, then

10:40

Chapter 481

this time, he’d

voice cut through the darkness, making his heart thud painfully

chest.

she was just

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

awake.

his lips together,

come back just to see you,” Alessia said, her voice tinged with

vulnerability undid him

possibly see him–Cole straightened, head hung low like a scolded

replied, and his voice was just as

why won’t you see me? You’ve been avoiding

seen you. I come here every day,”

up for you, and now that I have, you’re nowhere to be found. Did

over and gently covered her mouth with

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