Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism

Chapter 711 His Admirer

If Jasper hadn't stepped in to help Mandy back then, she probably wouldn't have made it through college so easily.

She wouldn't have had the strength to handle all the exams.

Her life had been exhausting, but Jasper's assistance gave her a chance to move forward smoothly. Without his help, she might have been lost long ago, never reaching where she was today. Jasper was curious. "Really? What did I do for you? I honestly don't remember."

Mandy smiled. "Well, people who do good often forget about it. But I remember it."

Jasper looked at her thoughtfully and smiled. "Looks like life's been treating you well these past few years."

"I wouldn't say I've done extraordinarily well, but I'm happy with where I am now."

"That's good to hear."

After all, for most people, money solved the majority of life's problems.

"What about you?" Mandy asked. "How have you been these past few years?"

"Do I look like I'm struggling?"

Mandy paused, then said seriously, "You might be wealthy, but you don't seem truly happy."

Leaning back in his chair, Jasper seemed intrigued. "Why do you think that?"

of all the reasons, but a

Her words hit home.

only visited bars when he was feeling

himself with people to avoid appearing lonely. But as he got older, he found himself enjoying solitude

could spend half an hour just sipping a single drink, savoring the

deny it,

him, her eyes

possible that someone like him, seemingly on top of the

Why didn't you tell me you were here?

to the newcomer, flashing a faint smile. "Ivory,

him. "I came with a friend. I didn't expect to see you here, Jasper.

was one of those women who had

had met him through her brother in Wiltonshire, but he had never been interested in

though she often hinted at her feelings, he always turned her down politely. Yet, here

Mandy, noting how Ivory had rudely shoved her aside. He didn't

with someone at the moment," he said,

giving her a once-over as if sizing up the competition. "What's so

that kind of confidence? It's sad when you can't even

so, Ivory showed a look

expression was

harsh?" Ivory said, her

J.ne