With that, she slowly stood, holding onto the sofa.

She feared that if she stayed any longer, she wouldn't be able to leave.

Her heart had unknowingly been captured by him, and saying goodbye was heart-wrenching.

But they both knew she didn't belong there; she had her own matters to attend to, and she couldn't remain stuck in the past.

"Wait, wait... " Absolon suddenly got up, taking quick steps to reach her, his hand extending as if to grab her arm.

But just as his hand reached out, he pulled it back.

The large crystal chandelier cast shadows that flickered around him, creating a suffocating atmosphere in the room.

The thought of her leaving made him feel out of control.

"Could you stay a few more days?" Absolon was almost incoherent as he desperately searched for an excuse, blurting out, "Jerrold's birthday is next week. He really likes you. Could you stay until after his birthday?"

He wanted to say, "Could you stay?"

He longed to tell her that as long as she stayed, even if only occasionally, he would be content just to see her well.

But the words turned into a sigh before they could leave his lips.

Joselyn's heart, too, softened slightly.

Just moments ago, she had feared he would ask her to stay-—she knew she wouldn't have the courage to refuse.

Yes, she couldn't bear to reject him.

She even thought that if he asked her to stay, she'd break her promise to Melvin and remain here.

Even if they weren't together, just living quietly in the same city where he was, occasionally walking together or having a meal, would be enough.

But he didn't ask.

A subtle sense of loss crept into her heart.

"Alright," Joselyn finally heard herself say after a long silence."

I can think about what gift to prepare for the child."

The next afternoon, Gerard returned from the company and picked up Lilah and Miranda, bringing some gifts to visit the Morris family.

"It seems Aunt Chen has been ill lately, but she hasn't been seeing visitors. I doubt we'll get to meet her," Gerard said.

"No worries. We can reveal our identities when we arrive and say Miranda is here to see Aunt Chen. Uncle Morris will likely agree, " Lilah replied, glancing at Miranda, who nodded in agreement.