78

~Aoife~

It was hard for me. Every moment we spent together mattered to me. I entered the house and struggled to compose myself. I couldn’t hold back the tears of pain that welled up inside me upon seeing him in such a state.

Gabriel instructed Jing to take Alex into his room. When he looked at me, his expression filled me with a mix of concern.

“You did a good job,” he said, trying to offer some solace. I shook my head, burying my face in his chest.

“It... it hurts... badly... he...” My voice trailed off, choked by the overwhelming emotions coursing through me.

“Aoife, I think he loves you, too. Otherwise, why would he come back?”

“I don’t think so. I hate loving unconditionally.”

“It’s progress, Aoife. Don’t you see that? You talked and faced him. That’s a step forward. Now, it’s time for some big news,” he continued, arching an eyebrow.

“What?” I sniffed and wiped my runny nose.

“I’m in love.”

“What? And you’re telling me now, you idiot,” I exclaimed, playfully slapping his should