His Destructive, Toxic Love (Jasper and Eliza)

Chapter 530

"Yeah, I've caught wind of some troubling stuff and got worried about you..." His eyes were full of concern, and he gave a slight, tense smile. "But you seem to be doing alright."

"Those who are gone are gone, and the rest of us have to keep on living," she said, trying to smile but not quite managing it.

Manuel nodded, his voice gentle, "If there's ever anything you need, just say the word. I'm here to help."

"Thanks."

Michael had been sneaking a listen from the kitchen. Once Manuel wrapped up his polite goodbyes and left, Michael emerged.

"This guy's got a crush on you, huh?"

Eliza shrugged it off, "Just a blind date."

"A blind date?"

No way, she actually went on blind dates? When did that happen?

"Before I decided to give it another shot with Casper," she clarified.

with such enthusiasm that he nearly bounced her off. "This guy seems like quite the catch. Meeting someone like him on

with being a stepdad, maybe it's

"Yeah, right."

her, the idea of him stepping in to help raise her two kids seemed far-fetched. With all his options, why would he settle? She brushed it

might be up for it, you

someone else into this, I might as well..." Eliza let her eyes land playfully on

uncle? That's hardly a burden. Just a couple of kids." He puffed his chest out,

just rolled her eyes, "Forget

said, heading to

was a message from Manuel. It was full of encouraging words, carefully chosen

Eliza for nearly two weeks before getting ready to head back to France. Right before he left, he handed

"I have

that. This is from

into her hand,

you're

dad. He's young and needs time

sure you're taking care of yourself, alright?"

felt a lump in

type, always goofing around, but e when it counted, he never let anyone down He was smart, good-looking, and had