Chapter 121
Elio felt upset about the way Hawthorne calling her, so he said, “I like her straightforwardness.”
“Oh, really? As long as it doesn’t offend you then. Hawthorne replied with a gentle smile, as if he didn’t fully understand Elio’s words.
He pushed the door open and a waft of floral scent blew in. “Star, come, I have something to show you.”
As he said this, Hawthorne reached out to grab Astrid’s hand.
Astrid subtly moved her hand, avoiding his grasp.
Seeing the look of disappointment on Hawthorne’s face, she crouched down and said, “Hawthorne, I’ve told you many times not to call me your Star. It gives people the wrong impression. I’m here because Mr. Cliff came to my house looking for my father. I didn’t want to see Mr. Cliff upset. We can be friends, but we can never be lovers.”
Hawthorne’s grip on his wheelchair tightened, and he managed a bitter smile. “I know. You don’t have to like me, but you can’t stop me from liking you. I’m willing to give everything for you, even my life.”
“I don’t need anyone to give their life for me, Astrid frowned. Thinking about Dailey’s worried face, she added, “Put out your hand. Let me take a look.” “You’re going to look? You know medical stuff, Star? This is not a time for jokes,” Hawthorne pulled his hand back into his sleeve. “Everyone says we’re a perfect match. I think so too. But why do you always push me away?”
“Everyone?” Astrid scoffed. “Why would they think that? It’s all because of your lies! You’ve told everyone we’re dating, and you make a fool of yourself trying to create these ‘surprises‘. I’ve told you many times, all I want is for you to take care of your health and stop doing these things. A lie can never become the truth. I won’t be with you because of public pressure, nor out of pity or gratitude. I’ll only be true to my heart. With that, Astrid stood up. “I’m leaving now. Take care of yourself. Taking care of your health is more important than anything else. Don’t make Mr. Cliff worry anymore.” As she turned and left, Elio followed her.
Before he could leave, Hawthorne’s voice came from behind, “Are you into Star?”
Hearing this, Elio paused, remembering something he hadn’t done yet.
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