One year, one love by Aurora Miller

Chapter 77

Early the next morning, Lewis returned from his run to find that Doris had already made breakfast.

“Breakfast is ready,” she smiled as she set down a fork.

“You should’ve slept a little longer.” He grabbed a bottle of water and took a sip, his Adam’s apple moving up and down.

Doris’s gaze lingered on his throat. “I’ve had enough rest. I made some sandwiches–I’ll take some to my parents later.”

“I’ll drive you there after breakfast.”

“No need. It’s not on your way, and you have work. I’m not in a hurry, and riding my scooter is convenient.” Doris didn’t want him to tire himself out.

“Mr. Hartman, my mom is sick, so I’ll be spending more time taking care of her. You might have to handle dinner on your own. Sorry.”

“It’s just one meal—I can figure it out.” Lewis completely understood. “Just focus on being with your mom.”

He knew how it felt. When his grandmother fell ill, he had been just as worried. That was one of the reasons he had agreed to marry Doris–to fulfill his grandmother’s wish and make her happy.

And with that, Doris and Lewis went their separate ways for the day.

When Doris arrived at Peyton’s hospital room, she ladled out some porridge. “Dad, Mom, have some breakfast.”

Jimmy got up. “I’m not eating. I’m going home to sleep.”

Doris couldn’t persuade him, so she handed the porridge to Peyton instead. “Mom, you should eat first.”

After breakfast, Laura arrived.

She and Doris took Peyton outside for a walk and sat down to rest in the hospital’s garden.

“Laura, Doris, I need to talk to both of you,” Peyton said, looking at the daughters sitting on either side of her.

“Mom, we’re listening,” Doris said, leaning gently against Peyton like she used to when she was a child.

Peyton held both their hands. “I don’t want to go through with the surgery.”

Doris immediately straightened up, her eyes widening in shock.

Laura also frowned, confusion written all over her face. “Mom, why? I already explained yesterday that your condition is treatable, and the success rate is high.”

she knew that refusing the surgery

doctors will give you anesthesia, and there will be pain relief afterward. And we’re here with you, Mom. You can’t just give up like this. We… we all want you to live well.” Doris’s voice choked up on the last

sentence.

in agreement. “Mom, what Doris said is exactly what I wanted

not that I’m afraid of pain.” Peyton shook her

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Chapter 77

Tell us, we can find a way to help.” Doris gripped Peyton’s hand

asking. I’m not having the surgery.

Laura and Doris.

rest now.” Peyton got up and walked away

stood frozen. They thought, ‘She didn’t object when we talked about

have to spend more time with her and find out why she won’t have the surgery.” Doris was determined–she wouldn’t give up until

had given up, as her

Laura said, “Alright.”

She said she would cover the hospital bills so Peyton could focus

recovery.

passed, and Doris and Laura still

asked them about Peyton’s decision.

said, “My mom won’t agree

something she’s worried about? I can explain everything to

“She won’t say anything. She just keeps insisting she won’t do

Micah Holmes, a leading specialist in breast tumors. With him performing the surgery, the success rate is nearly guaranteed. If you miss this opportunity, it may be very difficult to invite him again.

must do your best to persuade your mother–this is a once–in–a–lifetime

Zain left.

Doris were thrilled to hear this. But when they told Peyton, Peyton lost her temper and even smashed a glass. “I said I’m not having the surgery. Do you not understand? I want to

isn’t good for your health.” Doris

outburst. They understood that sick people often

for my health, then stop going against my wishes. Get my discharge papers ready for tomorrow. I’m going home.” Peyton

for your sake,” Laura, ever patient, spoke

me. No more talking.” Peyton turned her head away

ng to

Wane entered the private dining room in Hampstone Hotel, Lewis immediately got up, hugged him, and patted him on

Tue, 4 Mar

Chapter 77

while since we last met.” Lewis walked alongside Chris