The spontaneous remark from earlier might actually be the truth.
It seemed like my mom was hiding something from me.
I finished my meal calmly, spoke briefly to Grandma Rose, and went upstairs to change. I planned to check on Lauren and examine my arm later.
I tried calling Atlas on the way, but he didn't answer. I was puzzled. What could he be doing so early in the morning? I was worried that there might be news from Dylan. But it was unlikely, since only a short time had passed.
When I arrived at the hospital, I saw Lauren losing her temper. Only Lauren and Oliver were present in the ward. As I entered, I sensed an uncomfortable tension in the air.
A thermos was on the bedside table. Oliver had probably brought it here for Lauren.
Oliver stood by the bed, and Lauren seemed distant and cold. When she saw me, she seemed to breathe a sigh of relief.
I walked over, said hello to Oliver, and turned to Lauren. "How are you feeling today?"
"Not great," she replied coldly. "Help me see my guest out, Chlo."
I felt a little awkward. She was clearly giving Oliver the boot, and I was caught in the middle.
I gave him an apologetic look, but he ignored me and said, “Do you really have to be like this, Lauren?"
"Yes. Oliver, I've made things clear to you. I don't want to repeat myself."
I chuckled, trying to ease the tension. "Don't be mad, Lauren. I know you're anxious, but it'll get better with time. Talk to Mr. Oliver properly while I'll go check on my arm.”
I wanted to make an excuse to leave and allow them to talk things out again.
"You don't need to make excuses, Chlo. You should stay here today. Don't go anywhere." Lauren called me back, not giving me any leeway. I knew her personality. Once she made a decision, no one could sway her.
It was just like when she wanted to stay by Oliver's side back then. Even though it meant facing criticism from the entire city, she never once wavered.
"You weren’t wrong, Oliver. You're a man, and you should fulfill your promises. I believe you said what you were really feeling. You don't need to go back on your word, especially since it was a promise to the dead! I totally understand.”
As soon as Lauren finished, I saw Oliver's face turn deathly pale, and I felt a shiver go down my spine.
It seemed Lauren would never get over what Oliver had done.
Oliver's wife was brilliant. She set up a dead end for both of them before she passed away. Unfortunately, Oliver was playing along.
I couldn't understand Oliver's emotions and thoughts at that moment. Did he feel guilty toward his wife? Was that what had led him to sacrifice the feelings of a woman who was still living to keep his promise? He had said such hurtful words and broke Lauren's heart.
How could Lauren endure such torment?
The atmosphere in the room grew heavy. Lauren was breathing weakly, but her resolve was firm. Oliver clenched his hands at his sides, and he seemed to be undergoing a painful internal struggle as he looked at her.
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