Chapter 6

The door was knocked again. I looked over.

Liam's tall frame was leaning against the doorframe, his face pale and drawn, looking a little worn. Who knew how long he'd been listening?

He coughed, then said to Caleb, "If she wants to go, let her."

I lowered my gaze, the hand holding my phone suddenly feeling weak.

I took a step, slowly walking past him, my head down.

I heard him sigh deeply, and then he pulled my hand.

Liam tried to keep his emotions in check. "Chloe, I can..."

Tears fell uncontrollably. I smiled at him.

"Liam, we can't go back."

"I conspired with outsiders and lied to you. No matter what my reasons were, I don't have the face to face you."

"Let's just leave it like this. It's my fault, I'm sorry."

This matter would forever be a thorn in both our hearts. I didn't want to force us back together, only for him to bring it up in an argument someday, calling me bad, evil, or cruel.

I was afraid I really wouldn't be able to bear it.

Liam didn't say anything more.

I wiped my tears and walked out.

Determined.

...

At the care facility, I immediately prepared to pay with my debit card.

The nurse checked the account and said, "Someone came today and paid off all three of your overdue installments at once."

I froze.

Who could it be?

The nurse then handed me a file.

"This is from the doctor. Although your depression has fully recovered, you still need to come back for regular check-ups."

"Now your mother's condition in the hospital is stable, isn't she much better than before? Just like the doctor said, if you smile, maybe fate won't be so unkind to you."

The nurse teased me.

I looked at the check-up report and couldn't help but curve my lips into a smile, thanking her.

Then I went to my mom's room.

Mom was sitting in her wheelchair. She was much better this time, even remembering me.

She smiled and waved at me, asking for candy.

I took out a milk candy from my pocket and gave it to her.