Emilia had always hated owing people, especially favors she could never repay.
That was why, after thinking it through carefully, she still chose to turn William down.
Knowing her well, her response didn't surprise him. He simply looked at her and said, "I know what I said probably caught you off guard. You probably never imagined being in a relationship with me.
"I was too direct today, but everything I said still stands. Take your time to think about it. If you ever need me, or if you decide to accept my offer, I'll always be here."
Looking into his sincere eyes, Emilia didn't know what to say. She had never once imagined that William would have feelings for her. It felt more unreal than any fairytale, almost like a dream.
But everything was real.
Emilia arrived at the hospital with emotions too complicated to put into words. As soon as she stepped out of the car, she saw Irvin standing under a crabapple tree not far away.
She wasn't sure if it was just her imagination, but he suddenly looked much older. Even on such a bright spring day, he seemed weighed down and lifeless.
When Irvin spotted her, he immediately strode toward her. He looked at her with such urgency, as if there was so much he wanted to say.
But once he stood in front of her and met her eyes, he suddenly couldn't speak a word. He didn't know what to say, or what he could say, because nothing would make a difference.
After a long silence, Irvin finally spoke. "I'm sorry, Emi. I heard your grandma had a heart attack after seeing that news…"
He knew he no longer had the right to say anything. But the moment he heard what had happened, he couldn't stop himself from coming.
Irvuin felt too ashamed. He no longer had the right to explain or ask for forgiveness. All he could do was watch as the most important person in his life walked away from him, leaving his life for good.
But Emilia already knew it had been a setup by Grace. But what would that change? It had still happened.
There was no way for them to be together again. Now it was even more impossible.
She walked past him toward the inpatient building. When she reached her grandmother's room and was about to push the door open, she heard a voice from inside.
"Mrs. Quill Senior, you saw it yourself. Your granddaughter is still clinging to my husband. I hope you can stop her from doing that. We're going to have a child now. No matter how much she believes my husband is her missing ex, he is not."
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