Jamie turned her head sharply, stunned by what she had just heard.The look in Ben’s eyes was more serious than she had ever seen before. His words weren’t casual. They came from the depths of his heart, and anyone could tell they were genuine. Mrs. Lucas watched the scene unfold, her emotions a mix of complexity and relief.A few years ago, she never would have imagined that someone she once dismissed could not only gain Ben’s acceptance but also hers. It was clear now that Jamie was not just anyone. She was important to her son. But not everyone shared their sentiment.Mr. Lucas frowned as his critical gaze swept over Jamie. He turned to Ben, his tone full of disapproval. So, this is the reason you’ve rejected all those other women? What’s so great about her? Her family background doesn’t match yours, and her career is nothing special.Ben’s eyes narrowed. Have you planted someone in the company to keep tabs on me?Otherwise, there was no way his semi-retired father could know so much.His father’s brief hesitation gave it away, though his calm demeanor didn’t falter. That’s not surveillance. It’s just ensuring you’re managing the company properly. This was the last straw.Ben stood abruptly, his face like ice, staring down at his father.Mr. Lucas met his gaze unflinchingly. What? Are you so full of yourself now that you don’t need your father’s guidance anymore?I don’t need your so-called guidance. I’ve had enough. Ben’s voice was sharp, his words cutting like a blade.Without another glance, he turned and took Jamie’s hand, leading her out.Mr. Lucas was livid. If you walk out that door, don’t bother coming back!But Ben didn’t stop and didn’t even turn his head.* Halfway home, Ben pulled the car over to the side of the road. He stared out the window, his expression unreadable.Jamie glanced at him, her voice soft. Don’t take it to heart. It’s not worth it.Ben exhaled slowly, his voice low and tinged with vulnerability. Jamie, can I… hold you for a moment?Jamie froze, stunned.It wasn’t hesitation. It was disbelief. She had never seen Ben this fragile, this raw.When she didn’t respond right away, Ben let out a bitter laugh, his tone filled with self-mockery. Forget it. Pretend I didn’t say anything.But before he could pull away, Jamie leaned over and wrapped her arms around him.The autumn wind rustled against the car window, and for a moment, the world felt silent. No sadness, no anger just the warmth of herembrace filling the space between them. Is this okay? she asked quietly.Hold me… tighter, Ben murmured, his voice barely audible.She tightened her arms around him, and as if mirroring her, Ben held her closer, as though he wanted to merge their very existence into one.*When they arrived at her building, Jamie hesitated. She looked at Ben, who stood by the car, watching her silently.You could stay tonight, she offered tentatively. There’s a guest room at my place, and it’s no trouble.The words slipped out before she could think them through, and she felt a sudden wave of nervousness.It wasn’t a calculated offer, just a spontaneous thought. Ben standing there, looking so lonely and weary, tugged at something deep in her heart. She didn’t want to leave him by himself. Before Ben could respond, Jamie reached out, grabbed his hand, and tugged him toward the building.For a moment, it seemed like Benforgot how to resist. This tall,imposing man allowed himsel netled inside as if her touch Sᴇaʀch Thᴇ Fɪndηovᴇl.nᴇt website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.away all his will to argue. be*Jamie peeked into her son’s room, making sure he was sound asleep. Nestled under his blanket, Charlie’s cheeks were flushed and rosy.Quietly, she fetched an extra set of blankets from the closet and led Ben to the guest room. You can sleep here tonight, she said. Ben didn’t object.The simple setup didn’t seem to bother him. He was clearly not the type to fuss over such things.But later that night, Ben fell ill.