Chapter 7
Chapter 7:
Ryan was probably busy tending to Olivia. There was little chance he’d spare a thought for her right now.
A wry smile touched Kailey’s lips as she gently tested her waist, finding the pain had eased a little. She pressed the ointment into the cleaning lady’s hands and said softly, “You can head back now. I’m going to school p>
The woman hesitated, worry plain on her face. “Are you sure you’ll be alright p>
“The doctor said nothing is broken. I’ll manage p>
It took some convincing, but the cleaning lady finally agreed to leave. Alone in the back seat of the car, a quiet wave of loneliness washed over Kailey.
She had lived under Ryan’s roof since childhood, always feeling shielded from harm. Yet now, when she truly needed someone, the only person who had stayed by her side was the cleaning lady.
She sighed inwardly. All relationships drift apart eventually. Hers with Ryan had simply ended a little sooner than most.
Later that morning, after submitting her paperwork at the university, Kailey informed her mentor of her intention to intern in Aslesall.
Her mentor blinked in surprise. “Aslesall? That’s so far from here. I thought you couldn’t bear to leave your uncle and were planning to join his company. Wouldn’t he worry if you went all that way p>
Kailey hesitated, uncertain how to explain her complicated history with Ryan. After a pause, she replied, “We aren’t related by blood, and I can’t keep relying on him forever. I’m turning twenty-one soon. It’s time I learned to stand on my own. He has no reason to object p>
Her mentor considered this and let out a soft sigh. “You know, no one needs to tell me how much your uncle cares for you—everyone on campus can see it, teachers and students alike. Even now that you’re nearly grown, he still shows up to drive you home, as though he’s guarding you from every possible danger. But you’re right about wanting to grow on your own terms. There’s a great deal to learn beyond these walls, and I truly believe you’ll do well wherever you go. I’m rooting for you p>
𝘋𝗂𝘴𝖼o𝘃e𝗿 𝗁𝗶𝖽𝘥𝖾𝘯 𝗴е𝗺𝘀 о𝗇 ѕ.co𝘮
Kailey gave a grateful nod, lingered for a few minutes to chat, and then left the campus behind.
Her college years hadn’t lasted long, but her mentor’s words stirred up a tide of memories. During her first year, Ryan had even bought a place near campus just so he could cook her meals. That kind of care felt like a lifetime ago. Now his world revolved around someone else—someone he truly wanted to cherish and build a future with. Deep down, Kailey understood that her presence had begun to feel like a burden to him. Perhaps stepping away was the best way she could show her gratitude—a quiet, parting gift.
She had been certain Ryan would be too occupied with Olivia to come home that evening. But as she stepped inside, she found him on the couch, his attention fixed on his laptop.
The sound of the door made him glance up. “Back from class already p>