Chapter 2018

Leaning against the couch, he could hear Shirley's muffled sobs and feel her trembling fingers on his skin. In all his years, this moment felt like the pinnacle of happiness. Exhaustion was a foreign concept to

him now.

For Shirley, any sacrifice seemed worth it.

A deep, aching pain in his chest made him want to cough, but he fought it back with everything he had.

"Shirley," he called out softly.

Shirley looked up at him, her eyes searching his.

His gaze was intense, swirling with unspoken emotions.

For a moment, she wondered why he was suddenly on a first-name basis, skipping the more formal address she was used to.

"What's wrong?" she asked.

you cry makes everything harder for me," he admitted, and the room fell into

only ever dated Mark before, so decoding someone else's feelings was not her

she

does it hurt much?" she inquired, concern lacing her voice. The severity of his injuries implied his attackers hadn't held back, aiming to inflict real harm. "Not at

being older,

could stand still right at

kiss her but didn't dare to cross that line. Instead, he contented himself with gently wiping the tears from

amiss and turned her

you?" she

That's why I was fate. It's all sorted now, no need to worry. Oh,

the

returning the bottle of medicinal alcohol she'd

this

true? Will you stay by my side at least until

he

informal address. She playfully prodded his forehead. "Watch your manners,

Abner caught her finger in his grasp, looking at her

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255