Ch. 401..410
Chapter 401
Yuna nodded. "Yeah, I'm feeling so much better now, like I'm actually healthy. I just want to live a normal life and catch up on everything I've missed." Hearing that from her was seriously heartwarming.
"Good, I'm all for it," I said, then added cautiously, "But are you sure you can understand all this? We could always get you a tutor if you need help."
"I can!" Yuna grinned, practically glowing. "Keira, I swear, I feel like I've gotten smarter since the heart transplant. I understand everything just by looking at it."
I froze for a second, caught off guard. Yuna placed her hand over her chest, her expression thoughtful. Do you think the person who had this heart was a genius?"
"What? No, come on," I laughed, trying to steer her away from that thought. "Being smart comes from the brain, not the heart."
Truthfully, I'd felt something strange earlier too, but I didn't want Yuna dwelling on it. The last thing she needed was unnecessary worries.
"You've always been smart. Hayden's said it himself," I added, correcting her with a smile.
Yuna chuckled softly. "I'm serious though. I want to apply to college. I want to experience campus life."
"That's amazing!" I said, flipping through the books she was reading. They were filled with notes, clearly second-hand.
Curious, I asked, "Who got you these books? Hayden?
"No, a friend," Yuna answered, her eyes shifting away.
Something seemed off. I smiled, gently probing. "Oh? You made a friend in the hospital? And one who's a good influence, too. Impressive."
"Well, not exactly a friend," Yuna mumbled, looking a little embarrassed.
I pretended not to get it. "You're confusing me."
"It was a family member of a patient in another room. He got lost while reading and wandered into my room. It gave me quite a scare-I thought he was some kind of intruder. Turns out he's studying for his PhD... As soon as Yuna finished explaining, I got the gist. Just a random encounter. Nothing alarming.
Still, my instincts told me to stay cautious.
I tried a different angle. "He sounds like someone worth knowing.
"I wouldn't mind meeting such a positive, hardworking scholar myself.
4
"Which room is his family in? We should at least thank him for all these books-maybe take him out to lunch or something.
"I didn't ask," Yuna quickly replied. "I already thanked him. Lunch would be over the top; let's not."
Chapter 401
She hadn't even asked which room he was in... I couldn't push it much further.
I picked up one of the books, flipping through again. The handwriting in the notes was neat, almost graceful. If handwriting reflected character, he probably wasn't the type to cause trouble. Setting the book down, I remembered I still hadn't reached Hayden. I decided to feel things out. "Has Hayden called you?"
"Nope," Yuna said, wrinkling her nose. "So, what did you bring me to eat?"
Hayden hadn't called Yuna either? A spike of worry hit, but I brushed it aside for now.
"I brought baked pears," I said, keeping my tone light.
"Baked pears?" Yuna echoed, clearly unfamiliar with the dish.
"They're delicious," I replied as I unwrapped the baked pears Gavin had given me and placed them in front of her.
Yuna licked her lips, intrigued, and picked up a spoon, taking a sip of the pear juice. "Wow, this is so sweet.
"Eat up, it's good for your throat," I said, watching her absentmindedly.
"Keira?" Yuna waved her hand in front of my face.
"Hmm?"
"Are you sure you and Hayden didn't have a fight? You've been totally out of it," Yuna asked, ever perceptive.
"We didn't fight, stop over-" I didn't even get to finish before there was a knock at the door.
Yuna had barely said "Come in" when the door swung open.
The moment I saw who walked in, I froze.
Chapter 402 It was Jace.
The second he appeared, my first thought was that something had happened to Matthew. I jumped up. What happened to your dad?"
Jace's gaze didn't shift; his eyes were locked on me. "He's fine."
He held out his phone. "My mom wants to talk to you."
The anxiety that had been building in my chest slowly eased. "What does she need?"
"It's urgent. She told me to find you and have you call her back right away," Jace said, pushing the phone closer.
Just as I reached for the phone, Yuna's voice rang out behind me. "Keira, who is he?"
My breath hitched. Yuna had already been suspicious that something was off between Hayden and me. And with all the romance novels she devoured, if she found out Jace was my ex, she'd definitely start jumping to conclusions "He's... my brother," I said, the word tumbling out awkwardly. The second it left my mouth, I swear the room temperature dropped.
I refused to meet Jace's eyes. Instead, I forced a smile and turned to Yuna. "I'm just gonna step out and make a quick call. Keep enjoying your pears!"
Yuna, still holding her spoon, didn't move, her eyes locked on Jace with clear suspicion.
"Let's go," I said to Jace, desperate to get out of there before Yuna asked more questions.
"Wait... is he the other brother? Like, another son of your foster parents?" Yuna's tone made my stomach flip.
I glanced at Jace, and his face was definitely darker. Great. Was he pissed? Hurt? Both?
But, like, we had broken up, and his parents were all about making me their goddaughter. So technically. calling him "brother" wasn't totally wrong... right? "Yup," I said quickly, grabbing Jace's phone and heading for the door.
I dialed Lindey's number, and she picked up right away, her voice all concerned mom vibes. "Rea, why didn't you have Jace bring you home?" "I'm with Hayden's sister," I mumbled.
There was silence on the other end. Yeah, the Johnstons had accepted Hayden, but deep down, they were still rooting for Team Jace.
"What did you need?" I asked, already pretty sure this was about Matthew's phone.
The fact that she hadn't mentioned anything to Jace but came straight to me? Yeah, she definitely wanted to keep this quiet.
"Is Jace with you?" Lindey's volce confirmed it.
Chapter 402 +25 BON I glanced back. Jace had followed me out, of course. I walked a little farther. "He can't hear."
*I checked Matthew's phone. It was her number, Lindey said, frustration leaking through her words.
Her?
That wasn't exactly helpful.
"Who?"
"Tanya Twain," Lindey practically spat. "I've called her before to warn her off. I recognize her number."
Oh. So that's why she didn't want Jace to know. But what did Tanya want with Matthew?
"She must've said something that upset him. He started bleeding again. Like breaking you and Jace up wasn't enough-now she's trying to mess with Matthew, Is she trying to destroy this whole family?" Lindey's voice rose, her anger building. I glanced at Jace again, then lowered my voice. "Please, don't get too worked up."
Chapter 403 Chapter 403 Lindey was on a roll now. "She's only this bold because that idiot Jace keeps protecting her. She's wading in deeper, thinking she'll get away with it. But I swear, I'll make sure she regrets it."
"Lindey, let's just figure out what she said to Matthew first," I tried, hoping to calm her down.
"What else could it be? She wants us to accept her, to let her into this family," Lindey snapped, like Tanya had already made her plans crystal clear.
"She's delusional. Even if every woman on Earth disappeared and Jace stayed single forever, I'd never let her into this family," Lindey snapped, her words sharp enough to cut through steel.
I knew she was just venting, too angry to hold back. So, I didn't try to reason with her. I let her get it all out.
After a few more harsh words, she finally started to calm down. "Rea, just wait and see how I deal with that woman."
Her words dragged up a memory from my early years with the Johnstons. Back then, Lindey and Matthew had nearly divorced. I'd overheard Lindey on the phone once, vowing to "teach someone a lesson" and make it clear her husband wasn't up for grabs. What followed was a massive fight between her and Matthew. He couldn't believe how far she was willing to go, and she'd broken down, saying he pushed her there. She promised that anyone who tried to break up her family would pay, no matter what it cost her. I didn't know all the details, but one thing was clear. Lindey wasn't afraid to be ruthless when it came to protecting her family.
Hearing that anger again today, I worried she might go too far.
Now that I knew what was happening, I couldn't just let it slide. If I didn't try to stop her and something. happened, I wouldn't be able to face Matthew.
"I'll talk to Tanya," I said, hoping to keep things from getting worse. "I'll figure out what she's up to, and then we can decide what to do."
Lindey went quiet for a few seconds before agreeing. Fine. But make sure you tell her-if anything happens to Matthew, I'll make her pay with her life." Her words sent a chill down my spine.
"I'll update you after I talk to her. Please, try to stay calm," I said before hanging up.
I stood there for a second, my mind racing, before turning back to return Jace's phone.
"My mom... was she talking about Tanya? Jace asked He wasn't clueless.
Lindey hadn't told him because she knew he'd defend Tanya. But I felt like he needed to know the truth "Yeah," I admitted after a pause. "Before Matthew started coughing up blood, he got a call-from Tanya." Jace's eyes narrowed, and I could tell the realization hit him hard.
+25 BONU Chapter 403 "Lindey didn't tell you because she knew you'd try to protect Tanya. But she's already shown up at your home while you've been gone. You know Matthew's condition, and you know what's at stake. Think carefully about how you're going to handle this," I said, keeping my voice steady.
On the outside, I sounded calm. On the inside? I was really calm.
Here I was, having a rational conversation with the guy I once loved... about the woman who tore us apart. If that didn't prove I was over him, I didn't know what would.
Jace stayed quiet, and I figured there was no point in dragging it out. I turned to head back to Yuna's room.
"You don't even appreciate my concern anymore?" Jace's low voice stopped me right before I opened the door.
I knew he was talking about the baked pears he'd brought after noticing my hoarse voice. The ones I gave to Yuna instead.
"Would you eat something past its expiration date?" I shot back, pushing the door open and stepping inside.
I paused at the entrance, taking a deep breath to steady myself. That's when I caught Yuna's voice, soft but clear.
"Hayden, is Keira's 'brother' actually her ex?"
Chapter 404 Chapter 404 Chapter 402 It was Jace.
The second he appeared, my first thought was that something had happened to Matthew. I jumped up. What happened to your dad?"
Jace's gaze didn't shift; his eyes were locked on me. "He's fine."
He held out his phone. "My mom wants to talk to you."
The anxiety that had been building in my chest slowly eased. "What does she need?"
"It's urgent. She told me to find you and have you call her back right away," Jace said, pushing the phone closer.
Just as I reached for the phone, Yuna's voice rang out behind me. "Keira, who is he?"
My breath hitched. Yuna had already been suspicious that something was off between Hayden and me. And with all the romance novels she devoured, if she found out Jace was my ex, she'd definitely start jumping to conclusions "He's... my brother," I said, the word tumbling out awkwardly. The second it left my mouth, I swear the room temperature dropped.
I refused to meet Jace's eyes. Instead, I forced a smile and turned to Yuna. "I'm just gonna step out and make a quick call. Keep enjoying your pears!"
Yuna, still holding her spoon, didn't move, her eyes locked on Jace with clear suspicion.
"Let's go," I said to Jace, desperate to get out of there before Yuna asked more questions.
"Wait... is he the other brother? Like, another son of your foster parents?" Yuna's tone made my stomach flip.
I glanced at Jace, and his face was definitely darker. Great. Was he pissed? Hurt? Both?
But, like, we had broken up, and his parents were all about making me their goddaughter. So technically. calling him "brother" wasn't totally wrong... right?
"Yup," I said quickly, grabbing Jace's phone and heading for the door.
I dialed Lindey's number, and she picked up right away, her voice all concerned mom vibes. "Rea, why didn't you have Jace bring you home?"
"I'm with Hayden's sister," I mumbled.
There was silence on the other end. Yeah, the Johnstons had accepted Hayden, but deep down, they were still rooting for Team Jace.
"What did you need?" I asked, already pretty sure this was about Matthew's phone.
The fact that she hadn't mentioned anything to Jace but came straight to me? Yeah, she definitely wanted to keep this quiet.
"Is Jace with you?" Lindey's volce confirmed it.
Chapter 402 +25 BON I glanced back. Jace had followed me out, of course. I walked a little farther. "He can't hear."
*I checked Matthew's phone. It was her number, Lindey said, frustration leaking through her words.
Her?
That wasn't exactly helpful.
"Who?"
"Tanya Twain," Lindey practically spat. "I've called her before to warn her off. I recognize her number."
Oh. So that's why she didn't want Jace to know. But what did Tanya want with Matthew?
"She must've said something that upset him. He started bleeding again. Like breaking you and Jace up wasn't enough-now she's trying to mess with Matthew, Is she trying to destroy this whole family?" Lindey's voice rose, her anger building. I glanced at Jace again, then lowered my voice. "Please, don't get too worked up."
Chapter 403 Chapter 403 Lindey was on a roll now. "She's only this bold because that idiot Jace keeps protecting her. She's wading in deeper, thinking she'll get away with it. But I swear, I'll make sure she regrets it."
"Lindey, let's just figure out what she said to Matthew first," I tried, hoping to calm her down.
"What else could it be? She wants us to accept her, to let her into this family," Lindey snapped, like Tanya had already made her plans crystal clear.
"She's delusional. Even if every woman on Earth disappeared and Jace stayed single forever, I'd never let her into this family," Lindey snapped, her words sharp enough to cut through steel.
I knew she was just venting, too angry to hold back. So, I didn't try to reason with her. I let her get it all out.
After a few more harsh words, she finally started to calm down. "Rea, just wait and see how I deal with that woman."
Her words dragged up a memory from my early years with the Johnstons. Back then, Lindey and Matthew had nearly divorced. I'd overheard Lindey on the phone once, vowing to "teach someone a lesson" and make it clear her husband wasn't up for grabs. What followed was a massive fight between her and Matthew. He couldn't believe how far she was willing to go, and she'd broken down, saying he pushed her there. She promised that anyone who tried to break up her family would pay, no matter what it cost her. I didn't know all the details, but one thing was clear. Lindey wasn't afraid to be ruthless when it came to protecting her family.
Hearing that anger again today, I worried she might go too far.
Now that I knew what was happening, I couldn't just let it slide. If I didn't try to stop her and something. happened, I wouldn't be able to face Matthew.
"I'll talk to Tanya," I said, hoping to keep things from getting worse. "I'll figure out what she's up to, and then we can decide what to do."
Lindey went quiet for a few seconds before agreeing. Fine. But make sure you tell her-if anything happens to Matthew, I'll make her pay with her life."
Her words sent a chill down my spine.
"I'll update you after I talk to her. Please, try to stay calm," I said before hanging up.
I stood there for a second, my mind racing, before turning back to return Jace's phone.
"My mom... was she talking about Tanya? Jace asked He wasn't clueless.
Lindey hadn't told him because she knew he'd defend Tanya. But I felt like he needed to know the truth "Yeah," I admitted after a pause. "Before Matthew started coughing up blood, he got a call-from Tanya." Jace's eyes narrowed, and I could tell the realization hit him hard.
+25 BONU
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403
"Lindey didn't tell you because she knew you'd try to protect Tanya. But she's already shown up at your home while you've been gone. You know Matthew's condition, and you know what's at stake. Think carefully about how you're going to handle this," I said, keeping my voice steady.
On the outside, I sounded calm. On the inside? I was really calm.
Here I was, having a rational conversation with the guy I once loved... about the woman who tore us apart. If that didn't prove I was over him, I didn't know what would.
Jace stayed quiet, and I figured there was no point in dragging it out. I turned to head back to Yuna's
room.
"You don't even appreciate my concern anymore?" Jace's low voice stopped me right before I opened the door.
I knew he was talking about the baked pears he'd brought after noticing my hoarse voice. The ones I gave to Yuna instead.
"Would you eat something past its expiration date?" I shot back, pushing the door open and stepping inside.
I paused at the entrance, taking a deep breath to steady myself. That's when I caught Yuna's voice, soft but clear.
"Hayden, is Keira's 'brother' actually her ex?"
Chapter 404
Wait-she was on the phone with Hayden? His phone was finally on?
That was my first thought, but I stayed put, listening as Yuna continued.
"Hayden, Keira's ex was looking at her kinda weird. I'm pretty sure he still has feelings for her.
ors
"Did you two have a fight or something? Keira seems... off.
"Why haven't you been answering? Your phone's been off, and you're not replying to messages. What's going on?"
"I'm telling you, if you mess this up and lose Keira, I'm not gonna forgive you.
"Hayden, come on, answer your messages, pick up your phone..."
I couldn't help but smile at that. It was obvious now-Yuna wasn't on the phone with Hayden; she was leaving him voice messages. Still, where was he? Why wasn't he answering or calling back?
Not wanting Yuna to feel awkward if she realized I'd overheard her, I made sure to open the door a little louder this time as I stepped back inside.
""Keira!" Yuna called out when she heard me.
I walked over, noticing how she quickly tucked her phone away, flashing me an innocent, playful grin.
"Don't overthink things," I said, sitting on the edge of her bed. "Yeah, the guy you saw is my ex, but that's ancient history. We're just friends now-or, more like siblings."
Yuna's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "Could you tell me your story with him?"
I blinked.
She scooted closer, practically radiating excitement. just wanna know-how did you guys start dating? And what happened that made you break up?"
Her curiosity was so sweet, like she was trying to peek into a world she didn't fully understand yet.
I could tell she'd filled her head with romantic tales from all those novels she devoured, but she hadn't experienced the real thing. She was probably trying to figure out where the line between fantasy and reality blurred when it came to love. Funny how that works-when people don't know something, they just have to find out. And honestly, if I didn't spill the truth, she'd probably come up with all sorts of wild theories on her own. Better to just set the record straight. Besides, there wasn't anything unspeakable about my past with Jace. It would just mean digging up
old wounds.
some
Alright, I'll give you the full scoop." I kicked off my shoes and sat cross-legged on the bed, facing Yuna, ready to tell her everything about Jace and me.
Ever since we broke up, I hadn't really let myself dwell on the past. But now, walking through the memories out loud, I realized how much there actually was-so many moments, both good and bad. Chapter 404
And yeah, at certain points, it still hurt.
I guess that's what they mean when they talk about the scars left by a broken heart.
"Keira," Yuna said softly, her eyes wide with wonder. "Forget about Hayden for a second-you
relationship with Jace was so intense. It's like something straight out of a novel."
I almost laughed. If only she knew the messy parts I'd left out-the kind of stuff that's too deep for her to handle.
Yuna gripped my hand like she was holding on for dear life. "Now I'm kind of scared."
I smiled. 'Scared I'll run back to him?"
Yuna nodded.
I chuckled. "Relax. I'm not into reruns. I'm way too selfish for that-if someone else gets their hands on what's mine, I'd rather throw it out than take it back."
"Same," Yuna said, echoing my sentiment.
"Wait, you're not worried I'll spill all this to Hayden and make him jealous, are you?" she asked cautiously.
I laughed. "Not even a little. If he gets jealous, it just proves he's into me."
"But he's never been in a relationship before," Yuna pouted, like that was some tragic flaw Hayden couldn't recover from.
"Aww, you feeling bad for him?" I teased. "Maybe we can-"
"No way!" Yuna cut me off, shaking her head so fast I thought she might give herself whiplash. "I just think it's kinda sad. He's not your first. I guess I like the idea of that perfect love story where both people are each other's first, you know?" Of course. She's that girl-totally in love with romance novel clichés.
"Those stories exist, sure, but they're rare," I said, trying to keep it real.
Yuna squeezed my hand, her expression suddenly serious again. "Keira, if-just if-one day you found out Jace had some secret reason for what he did, like he didn't really betray you... would you forgive him?"
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The answer was easy. "Nope. Not a chance."
Yuna frowned. "That won't do. When Hayden gets back, I'm making him marry you right away. Once you're married, no one can steal you."
Such a romantic. She didn't know there's a little thing called divorce.
But I just smiled and played along. "Fine by me. I've been waiting on that proposal forever."
"Really?" Yuna's face lit up. She whipped out her phone and sent a voice message to Hayden, her excitement almost contagious. "Hayden, Keira's just waiting for you to propose! Hurry up and come back already!" I couldn't help but laugh at how ridiculously adorable she was.
But after hitting send, Yuna sighed. "Why isn't he answering? What if something happened to him?"
Her words made my heart do this weird little flip, but I couldn't let her see that. I forced a grin and shrugged. "Maybe he got swept off his feet by some gorgeous lady along the way."
Yuna shot me a playful look. "Not a chance. Hayden's had like, a million admirers, and he's never cared about any of them. He's totally into you!"
We kept joking around for a bit until the hospital breakfast cart rolled in. I stuck around while Yuna ate, but once she was settled in with the caregiver, I headed out to meet Lena. Lena, as promised, handed over the backup phone with a brand-new number.
First thing I did? Tried calling Hayden. Still no answer. Ugh.
The unease in my chest was growing, but I knew rushing off to search for Hayden wasn't exactly realistic right now. I'd just have to wait and try calling him again later.
After leaving the hospital, I hopped in a cab and headed home. Once I got there, I pulled out the files on my parents' car accident, the ones I'd combed through a million times. Same conclusion every time: brake failure caused the crash.
Brake failure.
Was it just a mechanical issue? Or something darker?
The report didn't say, which bugged me. How had this gone unquestioned? Matthew had handled everything after the accident-how could he have missed this? Or... had he?
The only way to get answers was to ask him directly, but Matthew had made it clear I should drop it. Told me to stop digging.
Did he know something? Was he hiding something from me?
That thought sent a cold chill down my spine.
I was still zoning out, staring at the accident report, when there was a knock at the door. Without thinking, I got up and opened it.
Chapter 405
"Didn't expect anyone to still be here," said the guy standing outside, looking me over like I was the last person he thought he'd see.
I blinked at him, totally confused. "Uh, who are you?"
"Demolition office," he replied, flipping through his notepad. "We're doing the final check to confirm everyone's moved out. Water and power are getting shut off soon, and we're prepping for demolition. "Ms... Keira Kay, right? You've already signed the papers. Why haven't you moved out yet?"
It wasn't that I didn't want to move. I just couldn't bring myself to leave.
But I knew 1 couldn't keep putting it off. "I'll move today."
"You have to," he reminded me, "Once we shut off the water and power, you won't be able to stay here anyway."
Before he left, he threw in one last tip. "No need to lock the door when you're done."
After I closed the door behind him, I took a slow look around the apartment. One last look at what was left of my parents' place.
Then, with a heavy sigh, I called the moving company. "Hi, this is Keira Kay. I'd like to confirm my moving. service for today... Yeah, today's fine."
By the time everything was packed up and sent off, it was evening. The new place I bought after the demolition notice was now full of boxes. It didn't feel like home.
I sank into the couch, staring at the unfamiliar walls. My mind felt like a total blank until the backup phone rang. Not my usual phone-Lena's backup one. Only she had that number, so I figured it was her. I answered, sounding more exhausted than I realized. "Hello?" "Where are you? Hayden's voice came through,
Chapter 406
I closed my eyes, finally letting the worry about him fade a little. "Where are you?"
"I'm outside the apartment."
My stomach dropped. I could picture him standing there, all alone at the old place. He didn't know I'd moved out. Of course, he went back there.
I had moved out. Since I couldn't get ahold of Hayden, he had no idea, so of course, he'd gone back to the old place.
"You didn't have your phone on you. I asked Yuna, and she said you went home. Lena was in surgery, so I couldn't reach her either," Hayden explained.
I took a deep breath, letting my eyes drift over my new, unfamiliar apartment. "I couldn't reach you either." "I know," he replied, his voice soft.
A bittersweet smile tugged at my lips.
Before I could ask why he'd been unreachable, he added. "I'll explain everything when I see you. Did you move?"
Yeah, I had moved. And Hayden didn't know about this place.
He'd talked about renting somewhere new and asked me to move in with him. I had said yes. But with him being MIA today, I ended up here instead. "Yeah, I moved your stuff too," I said, glancing at his suitcase sitting by the door.
He didn't own much. The apartment he used to rent across from mine was mostly furnished by the landlord, so most of it stayed behind.
He went quiet, and the silence made me nervous, so I changed the subject. "Take a cab to Jubilant Heights. I'll wait for you at the entrance."
"Okay."
After hanging up, I changed my shoes and headed out. The apartment was new, barely finished last year, and the neighborhood was really nice. I walked around for a my way to the entrance.
bit, just taking in the fresh air, before making
There was a fruit store near the gate, advertising discounts on fresh produce. I wandered in and grabbed
a few things, figuring I'd kill time until Hayden got here. Just as I was about to pay, my phone rang.
I'm at the fruit store," I said. And as if on cue, I saw his tall figure appear in the doorway.
I waved, and he strode over, eyes locked on me, making my heart race like crazy.
I hesitated and said, "Do you want anything? I just got
But before I could finish, Hayden grabbed my wrist, his touch sending a jolt through me.
"No need. Let's go home," he said, his voice low and husky.
Chapter 405
I blinked, still processing the jolt of electricity his touch had sent through me, and let him pay for the fruit. He led me out of the store, and we walked in silence for a while, heading deeper into the complex. Finally, I couldn't hold it in anymore. "I tried calling you, but your phone was off. I couldn't find you, and last night... everything happened so fast. Matthew collapsed, coughing up blood, so I-"
I stopped myself. I had left him. Left without saying a word and went with Jace.
I had
my reasons, sure, but it didn't change the fact that I'd abandoned him.
"I know," Hayden said, cutting me off.
"I rushed back because of Matthew. His condition was serious," I added, feeling the need to explain more, even though his calm responses weren't helping my unease.
"Yeah."
He was agreeing, but something still felt off. The fact that I couldn't reach him earlier kept nagging at me, making me think maybe he was still upset. Maybe it had something to do with me leaving him last night. "So... why couldn't I get through to your phone?" I asked. "I'll tell you when we get to your new place," Hayden said, clearly teasing me.
I stopped walking, not in the mood for games. "Why can't you just tell me now?"
He stopped too, turning to face me. His teasing expression dropped, replaced by something more serious. "What's wrong? Are you afraid I'm mad at you?"
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A wave of sadness hit me, my nose tingling like I was about to cry. "Seriously, Hayden? I didn't think you'd be this petty. You won't even hear me out?"
"I'm not ignoring you," he shot back. "I called you, but you didn't pick up."
I could totally picture him losing it, scrolling through security footage, finding out I'd left with Jace.
Jace had already told me Hayden was looking for me. I grabbed Hayden's hand. "I wasn't ignoring you on purpose. I was in the ICU."
"I know," he said, a small smile tugging at his lips. "That's why I'm not mad. And as for why you couldn't reach me, you'll see soon."
His eyes flicked to the apartment building. "I haven't slept or even had water since you left last night. I'm exhausted and thirsty."
His words made my heart ache. I walked ahead, scolding him. "You knew I had to leave for something serious. Why didn't you rest? And what's this about not drinking water?" He didn't answer, so I dropped it and hurried us inside,
As soon as we got through the door, Hayden set his suitcase and a bag of fruit down, then suddenly had me pinned against the shoe cabinet, his eyes locked on mine.
The way he was looking at me? My breath hitched. I swallowed. "I'll get you some water."
"I was jealous," he admitted, freezing me in place.
I thought we'd cleared this up already. He'd sounded so understanding outside. Guess not.
"I didn't have a choice, I-"
a
Before I could finish, he shut me up with a kiss, pulling me in, his lips pressing hard against mine.
He wasn't kidding when he said he was thirsty-his lips were dry, rough, and yet somehow, it only made my pulse race harder.
"I get it," he whispered against my lips when he finally pulled away, breathless. "But I was still jealous." That hit me right in the chest. I knew that feeling all too well.
When Jace hurt me, he always had his reasons. I understood them, but it didn't make it hurt any less. "It won't happen again," I whispered, wrapping my arms around his neck, trying to calm him down. He nuzzled my nose in that soft, sweet way that made me smile. "So, where's the water? I really am thirsty."
I led him to the living room and handed him a glass of water. "Here. I'll wash the fruit."
But instead, he grabbed my hand, pulling out his phone and mine-and handed them to me. "Hmm?" I asked, confused.
"The explanation for why you couldn't reach me," he said, motioning for me to unlock his phone.
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"Did your phone break?" I teased, unlocking it. A video popped up.
I glanced between the screen and Hayden.
"I went to watch your friend's competition," he explained. "This is the full video. He crushed it-got first place."
My throat tightened, and tears pricked at my eyes as I watched the footage.
He got me.
He knew how much I wanted to be there, and he knew I'd regret missing it. So, he went for me, sure I didn't miss out. And to avoid distractions, he put his phone on Do Not Disturb. That's why I couldn't reach him.
"Hayden," I whispered, dropping the phone and wrapping my arms around him.
making
He understood the hug. He rubbed his chin against the top of my head. "Were you overthinking everything?
"Yeah," I admitted, sniffling
"Kiki," he said softly, his voice warm. "No matter what happens, I'm not leaving you behind."
"Yeah, I echoed, pressing a kiss to the side of his neck, leaving a playful mark as a little thank-you.
Hayden hadn't eaten, but aside from breakfast with Yuna, neither had I.
The kitchen was totally empty since I had just moved in. Takeout seemed like the obvious choice, but Hayden vetoed that idea, saying the first meal in a new place should always be homemade. So, we hit up the grocery store to grab some veggies and seasonings. But as we were about to check out, I spotted someone unexpected-Tanya.
It wasn't weird for her to be grocery shopping, but seeing her here, in our complex? That was definitely a
twist.
And even weirder-after buying her stuff, she didn't leave. Instead, she turned back and walked deeper into the complex.
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I trailed behind Tanya all the way to my building. She waltzed in through the front door like she owned the place and hopped on the elevator.
When the elevator dinged to her floor, I could only think of two words: soap opera.
She was living right above me.
Like, was this some weird coincidence? Or was the universe just playing a bad joke on me?
Either way, it was seriously annoying.
Luckily, my neighbors were pretty much ghosts, so fingers crossed I'd never run into Tanya. But with the way she waddled-super pregnant and looking like she was about to pop-I wasn't sure how long my luck would last. Tanya, broke-as-a-joke Tanya, suddenly living in a fancy building like this? Yeah, I didn't even need to guess who was bankrolling her lifestyle.
Jace. He was a pro at this. Pretending he still cared about me while being a complete jerk behind the
scenes.
Thinking about it, dumping him and walking away from his lies was probably the best decision I'd ever made.
That's why Hayden didn't ask why I moved here. He didn't need to-he knew exactly what I was trying to get away from.
The next day, Steve called, fresh off his competition win, and wanted to celebrate. I had missed his competition, so there was no way I could skip the celebration, right?
The only catch? Jace and his buddies would be there. Hey, Steve, what if we hang out just the two of us later?"
"Rea, I've only got one night before I head overseas again," Steve reminded me. "It's your only chance." Ugh. As I hesitated, he laughed softly. "What? You're nervous about seeing everyone?"
"Yeah," I admitted. No point in lying.
"Then I guess you're not over Jace yet, Steve teased.
I wanted to argue, but he went on, "I mean, if you were, it'd be no big deal, right? He'd just be another dude
in the room."
Oof. His words hit harder than I expected. If Steve thought that, then Jace probably did too. And all his friends... ugh.
Maybe it was time to prove to everyone that Jace and were done. Like, for real done.
And most importantly, Jace needed to get it through his thick skull that there was no "us" anymore.
No more of those brooding stares he loved to throw my way.
Plus, I had stuff to talk to Steve about, so I didn't really have a choice. "Alright, fine. I'll come."
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When I got to Steve's celebration, of course everyone was there. The whole squad. They greeted me like I'd been gone for years.
"Rea! Long time no see!" they called out, all smiles.
"Finally, Jace's fiancée shows up. Rea, you look amazing." Eric, the baby of the group, said with a grin.
I grabbed a soda and clinked it against his beer bottle. Eric, news flash: I'm not Jace's fiancée anymore."
He shot a quick look at Jace but shrugged. "Old habits, I guess.
Eric still seemed determined to play matchmaker, but, like, no thanks.
I mean, his heart was in the right place, but sometimes good intentions just make things worse. "Pretty sure Jace's new fiancée wouldn't love hearing that," I added, which shut him up real quick. Steve chimed in with a smirk, "Eric, don't make me explain the obvious, dude."
Everyone burst out laughing, and just like that, the awkwardness was gone.
Well, almost. Everyone was in a good mood-except Jace, who stayed quiet.
He'd always been like that-barely talking, all broody and distant. But now, it felt even more intense.
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Back when I was still with Jace, I'd always tell him to stop being so closed off, to try and be more chill so people wouldn't think he was some kind of untouchable He used to listen, kind of. But now? He was standing there, totally cut off from everyone.
"Ever since you guys broke up, Jace has been like this, Steve grumbled, shaking his head. "Dude walks around like the world owes him something."
I gave him a small smile, dodging the comment. "Steve, I need a favor."
I knew he was swamped with competitions and all, but this wasn't something I could ask anyone else. Steve raised a brow, immediately suspicious. "Let's hear it."
1 bit my lip. "I need help figuring out what really happened with my parents' car accident."
His face immediately darkened as I handed over the accident report, along with my theory. "You're the only one I trust to do this."
"Rea, what's the point?" Steve asked.
I looked down at the floor. "I know it won't bring them back, but I need to know. I need some closure."
There was a long pause. Finally, he asked, "Are you sure? No matter what you might find?"
"Yeah," I said, my voice firm. "I have to know."
"Alright," Steve finally agreed.
I exhaled quietly, relief flooding through me. "I'll cover the cost, whatever it is."
I knew he'd have to hire someone, and nothing came free these days.
"Don't worry about that now," he said. "We'll deal with it later."
When Steve and I walked back to the main room, the party was in full swing. "Steve! Get over here, man! You're the star of the night. And Rea, seriously, you're always with Steve-playing favorites much?" "Hey, Steve's good to me," I joked, but I wasn't totally kidding.
"Ooooh!" the crowd erupted, full of playful whistles and nudges.
Steve pointed at them like he was scolding a bunch of toddlers. "You guys better treat her right. She's our girl,"
Someone piped up, "Rea, you should totally join our gang! Just say the word and it's official."
I laughed, shaking my head. Like, seriously? Go from Jace's girlfriend to "one of the gang"? Not happening. But before I could say anything, a phone started ringing
Everyone turned to Jace. He stared at his phone, but didn't pick up. The whole room went weirdly quiet, and even the guy who had joked about me joining their group muttered awkwardly, "Rea, just kidding. No pressure." Chapter 409
Jace finally hung up, only for the phone to start ringing again. This time, he shut it down without a glance.
I had a good guess who was blowing up his phone.
Jace's face tightened. I couldn't tell if it was because I was here, or if it was something else entirely. Either way, I had only come to talk to Steve, and now that we had, it was time for me to head out. Just as I was about to say goodbye, my phone started ringing.
I glanced at the screen, frowning. Then I looked over at Jace. He was already watching me.
To be fair, his eyes had been on me all night. Especially when I said Steve was good to me-he clenched his fist right then. So that was what had been bugging him.
Tanya's name flashed on my screen. She'd been trying to call Jace, but when he didn't pick up, she called me instead. Real subtle.
I glanced around at the others, still chatting away, and raised my voice. "Hey, can I get some quiet for a sec? I need to take this."
Everyone went silent as I put the call on speaker and placed my phone on the table in front of me.
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"Keira, are you with Jace right now? Could you ask him to take my call?" Tanya's voice cut through the silence in the room.
You could practically hear everyone gasp, their eyes bouncing between me, the phone, and Jace.
I didn't care what they were thinking, and I definitely wasn't looking at Jace. Keeping my cool, I replied, "Did you call the wrong number? Why are you asking me to chase down your boyfriend?" The room was so quiet, it felt like time had frozen.
"He's not answering my calls," Tanya's voice was all shaky and pathetic.
I smirked. "Oh, and you think he'll answer just because I tell him to?"
Before she could respond, Jace stormed over, snatched the phone out of my hand, and ended the call.
I glanced up at his furious face, my amusement barely hidden. "Wow, Mr. Johnston, doing that's just gonna make her think I'm the one keeping you from talking to her."
Without a word, he grabbed my wrist and started dragging me toward the door.
"Jace," Steve stood up, his voice full of concern.
"Move!" Jace snapped, shoving Steve aside.
Steve, worried Jace might lose it, tried to follow, but someone held him back. "Dude, don't get in the middle of their drama."
In their eyes, even after everything, they still thought Jace and I might work things out.
Jace dragged me out of the room, but I yanked my arm free. "Why don't you handle your own problems instead of pulling me into it? I don't need to be cleaning up your mess."
His face twisted in anger. "Aren't you dating someone? So why are you still all buddy-buddy with other guys?"
I blinked, caught off guard. I thought he was mad about me putting Tanya's call on speaker, but he was grilling me about my personal life?
Then it hit me-he wasn't mad about Tanya at all. He was jealous. Of Steve. Seriously?
Still stuck on that old idea that something went down between Steve and me
So that's what had him all worked up tonight.
I didn't bother figuring out if it was jealousy or just possessiveness. I shot him a sarcastic smile. "Mr. Johnston, do you really think you get to question who hang out with?" "Were you and Steve a thing while we were still together?"
Wow. His question just showed how petty and messed up his thoughts really were.
I stared at him, disgusted. "Do you think everyone's as shameless as you?"
His face paled, but he didn't blow up like I expected. Instead, he looked down. "I know I messed up. If
Chapter 410
treating me like this makes you feel better, then fine... go ahead."
Walt-what?
I blinked, confused.
Just then, the elevator doors opened. I stepped inside, but Jace's voice stopped me. "I'll take you home."
"No thanks," I said flatly, stepping in without looking back.
He didn't argue, just followed me in. We walked out of the building side by side. After a beat of silence, he spoke again. "Does she bother you a lot?"
It took me a second to realize he was talking about Tanya.
"When you don't pick up, she comes after me. She still thinks we're somehow connected. Like you're my... "I paused. "Sidekick."
Just like how people used to think I was his sidekick.
Jace clenched his jaw, but didn't say anything.
I thought about how Tanya had ended up living in the apartment above mine-something Jace had arranged-and couldn't help but add, "Jace, you're acting like a kid." He looked genuinely confused. "Huh?"
I rolled my eyes. Either he was playing dumb, or his acting had seriously improved.
Picking up my pace, I headed for the exit. He followed, not missing a beat. "It's late. It's not safe for you to walk home. I'll drive you, or I'll have my driver take you By the time he finished talking, we were already outside the hotel.