When Her "Death" Couldn't Break Him

Chapter 1723 The Conversation With Calvin

The ride was silent for a while until his voice broke the stillness. "I happened to be passing by and saw you. Why were you standing in the rain like that?"

Standing in the rain?

Cecilia explained, "I was just thinking about something. I guess I got a little too lost in thought."

In truth, Calvin knew everything. He was well aware of the events unfolding around Cecilia.

"Tell me, have you ever considered that maybe... you've already regained your memories, but you're unwilling-perhaps even afraid to fully recall them?"

Cecilia didn't understand.

Calvin continued, "Seven years ago, I found you collapsed in a cemetery. I saw how Paula and Magnus forced you into that marriage. I've often wondered what kind of life have you been living all these years? I know that you're trying to shut yourself off, to keep from getting hurt again. But, Ceci... you can't keep your heart closed forever. There are people who truly care about you now. You're worthy of love. You deserve to be surrounded by those who see you as family."

As Cecilia listened to his words, a dull ache began to throb in her temples. She suppressed the discomfort. Forcing a faint smile, she said, "I know."noveldrama

But Calvin wasn't fooled. He could tell-she hadn't taken his words to heart.

"I've been through a lot, too. From a young age, I was sent to Sparaville, where I nearly lost my life more times than I can count. Even after being brought back overseas, things didn't get any easier. But through all of it, you were the reason I held on. You were the one who gave me hope, who pushed me to keep going. And that's why I'm here."

Cecilia blinked, momentarily speechless.

Calvin's lips curled into a wistful smile. "And after I returned... for the longest time, all I wanted was to be with you. Truly."

It was the first time Calvin had ever said those words. For years, he had buried his feelings deep within, too afraid that expressing them would shatter even the fragile friendship they had.

But now, he was no longer afraid. He had come to understand-there was nothing wrong with expressing his feelings for someone he truly cared about.

"I really do like you," he admitted. "Even now, I still do."

Cecilia wasn't sure how to respond.

Sensing her unease, Calvin said, "Don't be afraid. Lately, I've been thinking... maybe what I feel for you isn't just love. Perhaps it's because, once upon a time, you were my salvation. And now, just seeing you brings me peace."

No one had ever told her that before-that she was someone's source of peace. She had always believed that others were her salvation. It had never crossed her mind that, to someone else, she might have been theirs.

"I understand now," she said softly.

As they spoke, the car pulled up in front of the Smith residence.

From a distance, Cecilia spotted two familiar figures-one tall, one small-

standing under black umbrellas, waiting for her.

Calvin brought the car to a smooth stop. "Go on," he said.

Cecilia nodded. "Thank you."

She stepped out and made her way toward Nathaniel and Elliot.

Nathaniel immediately moved to shield her with his umbrella. "Why are you rushing? You might trip," he chided gently.

Elliot, eyes bright with mischief,

chimed in, "Mom, when you jumped

out of the car just now, you looked

like an excited little kid. Were you just that thrilled to see me and sc*mbag daddy waiting for you?"

Cecilia chuckled. "Maybe."

"Maybe?" Elliot huffed in mock offense before lowering his voice. "The guy who

just dropped you off... that was Mr. Reese, wasn't it?"

Cecilia didn't bother hiding the truth. "Yes. We happened to run into each other on the way, so he gave me a ride."

Nathaniel remained silent. Though he wasn't as openly jealous as before, he couldn't ignore the nagging sense of unease creeping in. He was worried Calvin might try to steal his wife again.

"Quite the coincidence. Next time, just call me. I'll pick you up," he said.