The Unwilling CEO's Love Game novel Chapter 103

"No." Jocelyn knew that her heart had fluttered, sure, but the fear of history repeating itself was stronger.

What did it matter if he liked her? His kind of liking was the sort that only extended as far as the bedroom, and even if he did like her as a person, it was the kind that could not stand the light of day.

If they could not even be open and honest, the most basic of relationship fundamentals, what good was liking someone?

Yasmine had not expected Jocelyn to be so resolute, but she could tell that Melvin had let her down one too many times.

"I'm not going to force you," Yasmine said gently. "If you have truly found happiness, I wish you all the best."

"Thanks." Jocelyn had a soft spot for Yasmine, who seemed more level-headed than Melvin.

Maybe it was because they were both women; they understood each other's thoughts better.

Yasmine smiled slightly. "I even had Preston bring you a present during the holidays, but he said you refused. It seems that you had already considered breaking up with Melvin by then."

Jocelyn was taken aback before replying, "It was just too valuable."

"When it comes to giving gifts to someone deserving, I never care about the price, only if the person matches the gift's worth," Yasmine said with a tender look. "It's a pity, Melvin just wasn't lucky enough to keep you."

Jocelyn could only offer an awkward smile in return.

"Are you heading back to the hotel now? Let me give you a lift."

"No need, I'm staying quite close by," Jocelyn pointed ahead, "I'll just walk."

Yasmine did not press her, "Alright then... Goodbye."

"Yep, bye."

As Yasmine drove off, Jocelyn waved farewell, her smile fading as the car disappeared into the distance.

She returned to the hospital to find Melvin standing by the window, his belongings packed.

He turned at the sound of her approach, and on seeing that she was alone, his lips tightened, his mood clearly souring.

"Disappointed?" Yasmine eyed him critically. "I told you to keep your distance from that woman, but you wouldn't listen. And now, look what's happened; you've pushed Jocelyn into another man's arms."

Melvin's brow furrowed. "You went to see her?"

"Don't play dumb," Yasmine huffed. "I asked her. She's not going to be with you again. Just give up already."

Lying in the hospital for five days had taken its toll on Melvin, his frame thinner, his current despondency adding to his haggard appearance, eliciting a touch of pity.

Yasmine, however, had no sympathy. "Serves you right. You only appreciate what you've got when it's gone, huh? That's just like you men, thinking you're irreplaceable and acting out. And the result? Let me tell you, when a woman stays, she's giving you a chance. When she leaves, it means she's piled up enough disappointment and can't see a glimmer of hope."

Melvin maintained a cold silence, though his rapid breathing betrayed his inner turmoil.

"Men are always like this, staying quiet and acting all mysterious. Women's thoughts may be hard to read, but at least we speak up. You think you're so charming, but you're full of it," Yasmine ranted, not holding back.

Melvin, struggling to contain his anger, wore a grim expression.

Yasmine was tired of lecturing him. "If you really liked her, you should've just talked to her. Wait until she's married with a family; then you'll have nothing but regret."

"Like her? Who said I liked her? She has a boyfriend, that’s all. Do you want to bet I’ll get engaged before her?"

"Can you stop being so childish?" Yasmine rolled her eyes.

Melvin took a deep breath, "Without her, life goes on."

Yasmine just shook her head at his stubbornness.

Jocelyn's time in Berry City had come to an end; she had to return to Yanova City.

Harrison had taken her to his parents' house for dinner the night before her departure. Keegan and Elise had grown so fond of her that they considered using their connections to transfer her to Berry City.

Harrison knew Jocelyn would not easily leave her hometown and asked his parents not to pressure her.

The next day, Harrison drove Jocelyn to the airport. On the way, he reassured her, "Don't feel pressured. My folks just hope to see you more often. If you prefer to stay in Yanova City, that's totally fine. It's just a two or three-hour flight; I can visit you easily."

Jocelyn felt a warm sensation in her heart.

Harrison was an incredibly considerate and warm boyfriend. He never put pressure on her and always considered her perspective.

Being with him felt easy.

"Thanks for understanding."