Leaving the Wrong Love Behind Forever novel Chapter 21

"My mother and Alison's mother were close friends. Even when we were children, our mothers had arranged for us to be married. Do you still have your half of the jade pendant?"

At his words, Alison instinctively touched the half-jade pendant she wore around her neck.

The creamy white jade had a crimson streak at its center, like a drop of blood, making it uniquely distinctive. The carving techniques and patterns were exquisite, though only half remained.

In the past, Maxwell had asked her several times why she kept wearing this incomplete pendant when it wasn't perfect.

She had simply said, "It's from my parents. Of course I must keep it safe."

He hadn't thought much of it, assuming it was the truth.

Little did he know, this pendant had such a deep connection to Arthur Bridgewater!

Arthur produced his matching half of the pendant, completing the whole.

"When you were little and visited my home, you were fascinated by this pendant. My father had it specially made when I was born, so I couldn't let you take it."

"After I finally got it back from you, it accidentally fell and broke in half. Seeing how much you liked it, I gave you half."

"Alison, we've known each other for a very long time—much longer than you might remember."

He pulled her into his embrace, nuzzling the top of her head affectionately.

Alison seemed lost in thought as childhood memories gradually became clearer in her mind.

"You're... Toby? My Toby?"

"Yes, you finally remember."

Hearing Arthur's confirmation, she stood motionless.

Her childhood "Toby" had taken care of her with immense tenderness. During their childish games of playing house, she had even declared that when she grew up, she would marry Toby.

Who would have thought that a childhood promise would actually come true?

Alison couldn't help the smile that tugged at her lips.

Maxwell's face had turned black as a pot, and he had bitten his lip until it bled.

He regretted his words immensely, wishing he had never spoken.

Alison's childhood was a time he had never been part of.

Maxwell pushed her away, his eyes distant.

"Bella, you shouldn't love me. I'll introduce you to someone suitable. Go meet him, and move on from me."

Bella's hand fell empty, watching only his retreating back.

Maxwell didn't care about her thoughts. He was solely focused on following Alison.

However, when Alison and Arthur returned home, he was stopped at the entrance to the gated community—he didn't even have access rights.

"I'm sorry, Mr. Johnson gave strict orders. We can't help you, Mr. Grayson. Please don't insist."

The security guard appeared apologetic but remained firm.

With no other option, Maxwell had to leave.

Suddenly, a light rain began to fall. He didn't drive, choosing instead to walk home in the rain.

Upon returning to his empty house, he felt a profound desolation.