Reborn, Reawakened, Rekindled novel Chapter 660

Neil had been avoiding me for a year, and I figured that sticking around for a few more days wasn't going to change a thing. Once Neil sets his mind on something, it's like trying to convince a wall to move.

So, I needed to find a way to make Neil see things differently.

After Kitty left for the airport, Russel got back in the car, reeking of cigarette smoke. He never used to smoke, but people change, I guess. I didn't pry.

"So, what did she say?" Russel asked me.

"I'm not leaving. I'm going to stay for a while. Can you do me one more favor?" I asked, feeling a bit cheeky for even suggesting it, but it was the only effective plan I could think of.

Russel's eyes flickered with something unreadable before he quietly asked, "What do you need?"

I laid out my plan to Russel. He was silent for a moment, then stared out the window, lost in thought. I felt guilty for even suggesting it and quickly added, "You don't have to agree. I know it's not fair to you. Don't feel pressured."

Russel turned to me, his expression softening into a gentle smile, "No, I was just thinking about the best way to do it."

"You'll help me?" I was surprised, even though deep down, I trusted that Russel would come through. It was selfish of me to rely on his kindness.

When he was silent, I feared I had overstepped, but he agreed nonetheless.

"I've always said I'd help you if you needed me," Russel said, his voice steady but warm.

I felt terrible. I couldn't give Russel what he wanted, yet I kept using his goodwill.

And he let me.

We drove back in silence, my aim to bring Neil back to Rosemont, no matter his condition. As long as he had the will to stand by me, I'd face everything with him.

As we pulled up to Russel's place, right next to Neil's, I saw Neil stepping out, assisted by Kitty. They seemed to be heading out for a walk in the hot afternoon sun.

Kitty's surprised look quickly turned into a resigned smile when she saw me. Neil, on the other hand, froze, then scowled as if I were the last person he wanted to see. They exchanged glances, silently communicating.

"Neil," I approached him, my second time speaking to him up close since arriving in Eldoria. He looked tired, with dark circles under his eyes, adding to his brooding presence.

Before my chat with Kitty, Neil's cold gaze might have sent me packing, but now, I only marveled at his acting skills.

"Why are you still here?" Neil's tone was icy, laced with disdain.