Olivia had her doubts. “But you told me she wasn’t fond of Jewel since long ago. If she liked Jewel from the beginning, why did the pair break up after that?”
Eugene nodded. “You’re right. It’s a little far- fetched. It seems like the best solution is for Alex and Mrs. Road to talk to each other.”
“I told her that too. I suggested she talk to him.” He arched his brows in amusement. “Aren’t you going to tell Alex?”
Olivia coquettishly rolled her eyes at him. “I’m not driving a wedge between them, thank you very much. As a mother, I know she wants the best for her son. However, her personality is too much to handle. I almost lost my temper when she insulted Jewel earlier.”
He smiled at that. “Stop worrying. Jewel can stand up for herself, which explains why Alex can’t move on after all these years.”
Oliva glanced at the stairwell. “Should we call her? Or we could leave first?” Eugene indulged her. “It’s up to you.” Olivia playfully rolled her eyes at him before linking arms with him. “Let’s go.”
In the stairwell, Jewel put on a cold expression and hardened gaze. “What do you want?” Alex deeply exhaled. I’m sorry, Jewel. I don’t know where my mother’s words came from. I’d like to apologize on her behalf.”
“Don’t worry,” Jewel commented. “She’s not wrong at all. It’s our fault to stay together. I used to think love is between two people and outsiders have no right to meddle in it. However, I was proven wrong when I saw your mother lying on the sick bed earlier. I can’t pretend it doesn’t bother me when someone’s life depends on us.”
He watched her with an intense gaze as if he wanted to imprint her image forever in his mind. I know. She’s right, but I just can’t break up with her.
His mother’s attempt scared both him and Jewel, and it was his fault for not dealing with it in a more reasonable approach.
Jewel watched him. “Nothing matters when it comes to a situation of life or death. I’m leaving. Stop coming for me.” At that, she turned on her heel. However, Alex grabbed her wrist. “Jewel.”
She didn’t turn to face him nor did she pull her hand away. At that point, she could feel her vision blur.
She hadn’t cried for years. Not when she was having a skin graft, not when she was training, nor when her life was at risk. Jewel Fenton never cried. However, she couldn’t stop the tears that pricked her eyes at the moment.
“Don’t leave!” Alex pleaded in a hoarse voice. He couldn’t find the right words for an explanation. All he did was mumble, “It’s a living hell without you.” At that, Jewel muttered, “At least you’ll live. Over time, you’ll eventually forget about me.”
However, Alex pressed, “And how long is it going to be? I can’t even forget you after nine years. How long should it take this time?”
Jewel’s tears began to fall. She fiercely wiped them away with the back of her hand. “Alex, don’t put your problem on me. The best I can do for you is give you space.”
Alex tiredly shut his eyes. “Jewel, I don’t want to cause you any trouble. I’ll leave you alone for a few days. I’ll deal with my mom before I come back to you. Will you wait for me?”
“There’s no need for that.” Jewel turned him down. “Your mom is right. We’re not a good match for each other. There are a lot of women out there dreaming of marrying you. Even a random one has a wealthier family than me.”
Alex was frustrated upon hearing that. “I don’t want anybody else but you! Jewel, have a little faith in me. I’ll deal with it.”
His words took all the strength from her. She stood there with her head hung low as if she just ran a marathon.
Alex immediately pulled her into a hug and coaxed her with gentle words. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to take it out on you. I’m just too afraid. After all, what’s the point of thriving if you don’t want to be with me?”
She couldn’t bring herself to answer him.
