Chapter 399

(Jared's POV)

I stepped out of my car and into the familiar driveway. I paused, looking up at Arielle's house, a sense of trepidation gripping my chest. It was ironic how visiting here used to give me flutters in my chest, but now it gives me dread.

Nothing seemed to matter anymore, not my company, not the countless business deals, just Arielle. And whenever I visited, I wished it was under a different circumstance and things were different.

As I approached the front door, it swung open, revealing Mrs Meyers. Her eyes, once bright and vibrant, now looked sunken.

Poor woman. The weight of her daughter's struggles had taken a toll on her, and my heart went out to her.

“Jared,” she called, her voice barely a whisper as she stepped aside to let me in.

“Hi, Mrs Meyers. How are you doing?’ I asked, trying to sound cheerful despite how gloomy I was.

She waved her hand dismissively, a faint smile on her lips. “I'm fine, Jared. Don't worry about me. She's upstairs,” she said pointing a