Master of his heart (Brielle and Max)

most, born with opportunities, so every time I set off for somewhere new, I hope not to miss out on the journey."

She stared at him for what felt like ages before finally managing to say, "Thanks." Matthew was a bit surprised but gave her a warm smile. "Just speaking the truth. Sometimes I think if we don't soak up all the sights life offers, it's like we've wasted a trip. I'm luckier than The world's got its fair share of rich folks, but most of us are just regular people. A typical life? School, work, marriage, a mortgage, and then decades of paying it off. It's like being stuck at a desk forever. Those born into privilege often scoff at people for not trying hard enough, but the truth is, many just don't have the chance to change their lot.

At just eighteen, Matthew got this. He knew he was lucky. At that moment, Aubree really wanted to be his friend. Watching him, she saw a bit of her younger self. Matthew was doing things she never dared to, things she was too scared to try. Lost in thought, she slipped. Matthew caught her just in time, his face paling with concern. "Aubree, be careful," he said, looking up at her.

There's a saying- if a younger guy doesn't call you 'sis,' he might be up to something else. Aubree saw through Matthew's intentions easily. She genuinely wanted to be friends, not get involved romantically with someone so young. She was past the point of having energy for that.

Matthew let go of her hand, giving her a gentle reminder, "The path down is slippery, don't daydream." Aubree nodded and followed him back to the road. By the time they returned, it was evening, and Matthew said goodbye to his friends. They started planning the next adventure. "Matthew, where are we heading next? Plan it out early, we're counting on your guide." A chorus of laughter followed, showing Matthew as the leader of the group.

Once everyone left, Aubree and Matthew got into the car. "Aubree, let's grab some food first, you must be starving." She nodded, feeling both hungry and tired, yet more fulfilled than ever. Just as they sat down in the diner, her private doctor called, saying Andrew had a fever and his wound was infected. He was at the hospital.

frowned. "Didn't I

on him? Did he take his

reopened, and we need to stitch it up again." Aubree took a deep breath, not responding immediately. A few minutes later, the doctor asked hesitantly, "Miss Aubree, could

his

That made her angry. She got up and said to Matthew, "Andrew's got a fever and is in the hospital. I need to check on him. Sorry, Matthew, I owe you a meal." Matthew raised an eyebrow but quickly had a meal packed for her.

eaten all afternoon; don't

hungry."

tried to pay, but he stopped her, "I want to treat you." His eyes had a stubborn glint. Aubree didn't argue. "Alright, I'll treat you next time." After she left, Matthew sat back down, his earlier sweetness replaced by a chill. "That old man knows how to

to