No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

Chapter 786

Fanny was feeling pretty down, grappling with the loss of her Aunt Felicia and Uncle Joe.

It wasn't about blaming herself; rather, it was the shock of their Romeo and Juliet- style departure that left her staggered. Since hearing tales of tragic love like theirs, she'd always hoped for a love story that ended with growing old together, not one cut short by shared tragedy.

Before experiencing love firsthand, Fanny thought it was simple: just love me, and I'll love you back. But now, she understood it wasn't that easy. Finding a love that lasts seemed almost impossible, let alone growing old together.

It was late in the night when Yates returned home. Fanny wasn't asleep; instead, she was lost in thought on the balcony.

"Why aren't you asleep yet? I told you not to wait up for me," Yates said, wrapping his arms around her, resting his chin on her shoulder, seeking solace in her presence.

"Rough day?" Fanny asked softly.

Yates gave a tired nod, too worn out to even speak.

Seeing him like this, Fanny felt a pang in her heart. She gently touched his face, "You can't keep pushing yourself like this, Yates. Have you ever thought about taking it easy?"

"Not just yet. Give me a couple more years," Yates replied, prompting a bittersweet smile from Fanny.

wonder you're successful," Fanny teased, though there was a

burrowed closer, seemingly too tired to

lip, words she wanted to say lingering on her tongue. But seeing Yates like this, she swallowed them back down. "You're exhausted.

murmured, but didn't move a

of being too tired to even move because she'd

with Yates, she really did. But understanding didn't make up for the distance between them, nor the times

him gently. "Come on, let's

deep breath, forcing himself up, and scooped Fanny into his

more. Once he laid her down, she didn't have the heart to

hospital. Can I skip it tonight?" Yates

struggle to

her a grateful smile,

pulling her close, and was asleep almost instantly. Fanny watched his peaceful face. "Your

remembering he hadn't spent much time with her

said nothing more, and Yates quickly drifted off to

waking when his