Can’t Win Me Back by Ginger Sue

After a while, Alyssa realized Jasper had disappeared. Leaving the party on her own, she ran into Mrs. Rosie in the corridor. "Mrs. Rosie, have you seen Jasper?"

"Mr. Jasper went back to his room. I knocked on his door for a long time, but he wouldn't open it," Rosie replied, shaking her head. "With everyone here tonight, enjoying such a lively occasion, I don't understand why he's isolating himself like a depressed teenager. It's so lame of him to call it a night this early."

Alyssa frowned, her smile wry. She felt concerned, aware of how downcast Jasper could be on his mother's death anniversary. Moreover, the confrontation with Javier at the cemetery likely brought back painful memories. Returning to such a lively home must have stirred up his emotions.

"Mrs. Rosie, could you please entertain our guests on the balcony? I'll go check on Jasper."

Alyssa stood before the room's door, taking a brief pause before gently knocking. "Jasper? Are you there?"

There was no response.

"Don't be sad. Come and enjoy the delicious food outside. Everyone is waiting for you."

Jasper was silent.

you're upset about what happened today. I understand that you must be missing your

will make sure to treat you really well from now on. I know you've always felt lonely, but don't forget, you have me, Grandpa, Mrs.

Family, friends, the love of your

she could finish,

darkness. In the

the door in the dark.

seductively in

against his sturdy chest. Her face

bodies as intimately as they

suggestive atmosphere. She quivered

to trick me, right?" Jasper's