"Thank you, Winona."Jasper's voice was slightly hoarse, but his gratitude was sincere."You don't have to thank me." Winona smiled and slid the plate of fries toward him. "Here. Eat something and stop dwelling on everything that's upsetting you. We'll figure it out. There's always a way forward."Jasper nodded, picked up a fry, and began to eat. The hot, salty food and strong coffee gradually helped settle his nerves.The diner remained bright and lively, filled with the sounds of conversation, clattering dishes, and ordinary people going about their lives.Jasper looked at Winona, then at the customers around them laughing and talking, and suddenly realized that this simple, uncomplicated kind of life was all he had ever wanted.He knew calling off the engagement would cause an uproar. His family might fight him every step of the way or even try to punish him for defying them.But he had made up his mind. He wouldn't compromise again or let anyone else decide how he lived his
Read More