The unwanted wife’s unexpected comeback

Chapter 1127:

Sniffling, Alicia wiped her tears quickly. She cut the cake into small, neat slices, making it easier for Gemma to eat.

Just as they were preparing to take the cake upstairs, the front door creaked open. Corey staggered inside, his clothes dusty and his face pale. His breathing was uneven, and his eyes—empty and haunted—found Alicia across the room.

Corey wanted to ask about Gemma—how she was—but the question caught in his throat, his fear holding him back.

Alicia met his gaze, her voice trembling. “Gemma said she wanted osmanthus cake. I just made some. Let’s take it to her together.”

Hearing Alicia’s words, Corey felt a faint sense of relief amidst the storm in his heart. Gemma had an appetite. That had to be a good sign.

Silently, Corey sent a prayer to the heavens. If it were possible, he would have gladly traded his life for Gemma’s health. But as the thought crossed his mind, he knew it was selfish. He didn’t ask for much—just a little more time. If Gemma couldn’t have a long life, he prayed she could at least recover enough to find happiness for a few years. Even ten years would feel like a miracle.

Gemma had endured too much—endless medications, constant pain, and sleepless nights. It was a burden no one should have to bear. And yet, Corey couldn’t shake the guilt. It was his fault. As her brother, he should have protected her better, fought harder for her.

When they reached the door to Gemma’s room, Corey hesitated, fumbling awkwardly through his pockets. “I didn’t bring her a gift,” he muttered, regret lacing his voice. Gemma loved little trinkets—the quirky treasures he always brought back for her when he traveled. They never failed to brighten her day.

“You can get one later,” Alicia said softly, her hand resting on the doorknob.

She opened the door and stepped inside, her voice bright and warm, as though nothing had changed. “Gemma, guess who’s back!” But her smile froze, and the plate she was holding slipped from her hands, crashing to the floor and shattering into jagged pieces.

The sound jolted Corey, making his heart leap.

Caden hastily stepped in front of Corey, blocking his view, but Alicia’s reaction told Corey everything.

Corey’s legs felt like they were about to give way. Mustering every ounce of strength, he pushed past Caden and Alicia, desperate to see for himself. His breath caught in his throat.

Gemma lay on the bed, her frail body perfectly still. The oxygen tube that had been keeping her alive was gone, discarded by her side. She had removed it herself.

Her face was peaceful, untouched by the agony of her final moments. Her hands were folded neatly, and her body was arranged with care, as though she had simply gone to sleep.noveldrama

But the machines around her were silent. Gemma wasn’t breathing anymore. Her suffering had ended.

“Gemma,” Corey whispered, as reality began to sink in. He took a shaky step forward, but before he could reach her, he collapsed to his knees with a heavy thud.

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