Chapter 178 His Past

Jeffrey had been uncertain about Melanie's current feelings until now.

During the ball, Melanie proposed a collaboration between them. They kept their distance, each gathering information about the emerald vines—Melanie focused on the male guests while Jeffrey focused on the female ones.

However, the gossiping women at the ball had aggravated the situation, making it seem as if they were genuinely distant.

But now, Jeffrey could be certain she was deliberately avoiding him, clearly affected by what people were saying.

Watching her lonely silhouette on the balcony, Jeffrey couldn't decipher his feelings.

She seemed concerned about rumors suggesting he had a childhood sweetheart or that she was a mere replacement in his heart. The more uncontrollable he felt about these sentiments, the more conflicted he became.

"Aren't you cold?"

After a pause, Jeffrey joined her on the balcony, intending to offer her his coat. But before he could, she brushed his hand away. "I'm not cold."

A sh