"The doctor said it's a combination of heartache, way too much drinking, and living off coffee and bagels at odd hours. Plus, Evadne's always had stomach issues— she picked that up when she used to work on the frontlines, patching up wounded soldiers. Hardly ever got a proper meal," Cassius explained.

Chasel stared, stunned. "Wait-Evadne actually served on the frontlines?"

"Yeah. Back when Country L was caught up in civil war, she volunteered with Doctors Without Borders. She saved a ton of civilians and peacekeepers," Cassius's voice was a mix of pride and sorrow, his eyes clouding over with memories.

Chasel's jaw dropped. "Jesus, the Ashbournes are insane! Country L was a warzone-terrorists, kidnappings, bombings. And you let Evadne, a girl, go all the way out there? How could you not lose your minds with worry?"

Cassius went quiet for a moment, taking a shaky breath before replying, "It wasn't easy. But she was dead set on following Thaddeus. Where he went, she went. None of us could talk her out of it."

Chasel's head spun. "Hold up. Evadne risked her life in a warzone for Thaddeus?"

Cassius said, his voice tight with emotion. "Evadne only applied for the field mission so she could see him. She nearly didn't

on the porch railing. "Was Thaddeus even worth it? That guy's a total jerk now! I caught him cozying

this, he might as well have stayed

"Chasel..."

had to

with another woman. That's the kind of heartbreak that drops you from heaven to hell, you know? I regret ever saving his life. Should've

said, voice low and steady. "Some things are just fate. If they're meant to be, Thaddeus will remember why he loved her. And if not... maybe that's for the best. All that matters is they both stay alive and

a tissue from his pocket, dabbing at his tears. "I'll swing by the hospital

and

Cassius-your birthday's the day after tomorrow," Chasel said glancing at his wedding band with a shy, happy grin. "You know me, I'm not great at surprises like you are.

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

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