Herplexion was wless, adorned with delicate features. The cascade of her long, chestnut-brown hair exuded an enticing softness.


    He yearned for this woman, not just for a fleeting encounter but to have her by his side for the entirety of their lives, both physically and emotionally.


    Waylen had never experienced such anguish before. His heart ached intensely, but he refrained from voicing his pain. Speaking another word would only leaver him feeling embarrassed.


    He locked his gaze onto her, his Adam’s apple bobbing with emotion.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Finally, he retrieved an unopened box of cigarettes from the storagepartment. Skillfully opening it, he lit one.


    As the smoke filled his lungs, the anguish in his heart momentarily subsided.


    Waylen found sce in the act of smoking, almost addicted to the ritual.


    Ignoring venttion, he allowed the car to be shrouded in a haze of smoke.


    Rena couldn’t help but interject, “Waylen!”


    In response, he kissed her.


    Their lips had met countless times before but never had their kisses possessed such intensity. Waylen’s desperation to possess her was palpable.


    Swallowing became arduous for Rena, as breathing also became a challenge.


    His essence enveloped herpletely.


    In that moment, she feared suffocation, as if the air was being sucked out of her lungs…


    Waylen ceased the fervent embrace, enfolding her in his arms. Their foreheads pressed together as he closed his eyes and uttered in agony, “Rena, how did wee to this?”


    Rena found herself at a loss for words, uncertain of how to respond.


    Waylen did not press her further. He merely held her close, his breath slightlybored.


    Rena recognized his troubled state. She whispered softly, “Waylen, I don’t harbor any hatred towards you. On the contrary, there are things for which I am deeply grateful. But gratitude remains separate from love… I simply cannot continue to force myself anymore.”


    Waylen listened in silence, the weight of her understanding words seeping into his soul, evoking a profound sadness.


    As the atmosphere hung heavy with tension, Waylen’s phone abruptly rang. It was Korbyn on the line.


    In a voice fraught with urgency, Korbyn ryed, “Waylen, pleasee immediately. Your grandmother’s condition has worsened. We fear we might lose her tonight.”