Year Five The Perfect Goodbye Plan novel Chapter 129

In a split second, a strong hand yanked Silvia out of harm’s way—just as a car sped past, barreling through the exact spot where she’d been standing.

Stunned, Silvia found herself on the sidewalk. The faintest trace of a familiar cologne lingered in the air, settling around her like a memory.

She knew that scent all too well.

Kent.

What was he doing here?

Her mind was still reeling from the near miss. Silvia instinctively leaned into Kent’s chest, her lashes trembling before she closed her eyes. But the moment she did, the image of the car hurtling toward her flashed behind her eyelids.

Suddenly, her body gave a delicate, uncontrollable shudder.

Kent tightened his arm around her, instantly sensing something was wrong. He held her close, pressing her head gently against his shoulder. Whatever scolding words he had for her—about not paying attention to traffic—died on his lips.

For a long moment, neither of them spoke. Kent pressed his lips together, then finally broke the silence, his voice softer than usual, comforting her as best he could.

“It’s over. You’re safe now. I’m right here.”

The truth was, Kent’s heart was pounding too. If he hadn’t shown up at just the right moment, he didn’t want to imagine what could have happened. He’d only come because he’d wanted to ask Silvia to lunch. The moment he heard she was at the hospital, he’d rushed over. One second later, and he wouldn’t be holding her safe in his arms right now.

How could he ever stop worrying about her?

Kent lifted his hand, fingers gently stroking the back of Silvia’s head, soothing her. Gradually, with him beside her, Silvia’s breathing steadied. She lifted her gaze to meet his.

After a pause, Silvia spoke, her voice barely above a whisper. “I… I didn’t mean for this to happen.”

Seeing the worry in Silvia’s eyes, Kent changed his approach. He didn’t mention the near accident, only told Finn that Silvia wasn’t feeling well and was going home to rest.

Finn agreed immediately and let HR know.

Just like that, Silvia had the day off.

With a sigh, Silvia pressed her fingertips to her brow. Kent’s expression was still tight, as if he was holding back a surge of anger. She couldn’t quite figure out why.

She bit her lip, hesitating, then ventured, “Mr. Parsons… are you upset?”

Kent hesitated, but finally admitted, “Yeah.” He looked at her, concern and frustration spilling over. “Silvia, you have to let me know you’re okay. I can’t help but worry about you.”

Ever since they’d met, Silvia always seemed to get herself into trouble. Kent had thought that by keeping her close, he could protect her from getting hurt. But now, he realized—Silvia would always be someone he worried about.