Chapter 830
Hailey smiled. “Lester is great. He’s warm, well-read, and cultivated-a man of excellent character.” Miranda grinned. “Then how about you try dating him: Hailey nearly choked on her drink. “Mom, what are you saying? I don’t see Lester that way!” “Hailey, you’re not that young anymore. You couldn’t let go of Jonah before, but now that he’s moved on, it’s time for you to start a new life too. “A young woman’s youth only lasts so long. Just now, Mrs. Larden hinted at the idea of a match between our families.
She likes you, and your dad and I both think Lester’s a fine young man.” In their social circle, Lester was a rare gem-a scholarly, well- mannered man with a spotless reputation. Both Miranda and James adored him. Hailey said, “Mom, I’m just… not thinking about that right now.” “Well, you need to think fast. Don’t waste your youth on someone who’s not yours. Your father and I just want you to find someone who loves you, someone to give youa real home, “‘ Miranda said gently, her tone filled with motherly concern.
Not wanting her parents to worry, Hailey offered a soft reply, “Okay, I got it. Just give me some time, alright?” —- Miranda passed her a bowl of soup. “Now eat up. You’ve lost weight these past few days.”” After the meal, Hailey went to the restroom. She stood at the sink, splashing cold water on her face. She wasn’t in the best of moods and just wanted to head home and rest. As she walked down the corridor, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Aileen. The message instantly lifted her mood. “Hailey, I’m coming home ina few days!” Hailey beamed. “Really?
I’ll have your favorite dishes ready. Come back soon.” She wanted to tell Aileen about Jonah, but texting didn’t seem like a suitable platform. Instead , she replied, “Aileen, Ihave some good news to tell you when you get back!” “Okay! I miss you, Hailey,” Aileen replied. Just as Hailey smiled at the message, she bumped straight into someone. Her forehead collided with a solid, warm chest. Startled, she stepped back. “Sorry! I didn’t mean to. I.” Her voice cut off the moment she looked up. It was Jonah. She froze. —- Tall and composed, Jonah stood in the corridor with his gaze fixed on her.
“What’s this? Ms. Hailey doesn’t seem to recognize me anymore, eh? Or are you just pretending not to?” Hailey quickly recovered. “I’m sorry, Mr. Pilsner. I wasn’t watching where I was going.” Of course, he knew. She hadn’t looked up once-too busy texting someone, smiling happily. Jonah smiled ever so slightly. “I thought you had forgotten me.” “How could I? You just helped me recently. I’m very grateful for that.” Jonah noticed her polite and distant reply and decided to remain silent. Inhis silence, his presence was overbearing. Hailey suddenly felt suffocated under his gaze.
“T should get going, Mr. Pilsner.” Hailey tried to step past him. But just then, Jonah reached out, grabbed her wrist, and tugged her firmly back. Thrown off balance, Hailey tumbled into his arms. Her face flushed scarlet as she quickly straightened herself and tried to pull her hand away. “Mr. Pilsner , what are you doing? Let go of me!”