"Erica," Ansel called, wanting to change the direction of the conversation. However, Ansel's attitude, as if she were still preoccupied with what had just happened, made Erica misunderstand. Erica thought that Ansel wanted to argue with her. "What's wrong?" Erica asked anxiously, looking at Ansel with hesitation. "If you're not satisfied with my opinion, then I apologize. I was just speaking my mind. I know it may not align with your point of view. So, therefore..." "It's not about that," Ansel interjected, cutting off Erica's confusion. "I understand what you meant." To reassure Erica and make her believe his words, Ansel offered a gentle smile. His facial muscles relaxed at that moment. "Is there something else you want to tell me?" Erica asked cautiously. "Yes, I do," Ansel replied. "What is it?" Erica asked, her curiosity and interest piqued. "I want to say..." Ansel hesitated for a second before finally gathering the courage to continue, "About my mother insulting you. Eric
Time has passed quickly, and the clock has signaled midnight. "Ansel, look at the clock; it's past eleven," Erica said softly but with a hint of regret. "It's hard to believe that we talked and discussed all night like that." Ansel gazed deeply into Erica's eyes with a warm smile. "That's true; time flies when we're together." Ansel said, "Thank you, Erica. Having you by my side, I feel fortunate and at peace." Erica is feeling very happy and, at the same time, more comfortable upon hearing Ansel's words. "I feel the same way too," Erica hesitantly admitted, surprising Ansel. “Erica, you just said..." Ansel wanted to confirm, but Erica chose to dodge as she quickly changed the topic: "Ansel, it's late. You can sleep on the sofa. I'll prepare blankets and pillows for you." "Thank you," Ansel replied, hiding his disappointment as Erica once again evaded addressing the matter he was concerned about. After saying that, Erica went into the bedroom to get a pillow and blanket for Anse
Not wanting to keep his curiosity to himself, Ansel decided to clarify his findings. "Erica, where's your blanket?" Ansel asked seriously when he saw that there was no blanket on Erica's bed or a pillow. Ansel believed that the air was cold, and it was surprising that Erica seemed unaware of it. If Erica had a habit of sleeping without a blanket in cold weather like today, it would be hard to believe. "That... I..." Erica looked at Ansel awkwardly in response to his question. She didn't know how to explain the situation. Facing Erica, who was hesitant and dodging, it wasn't difficult for Ansel to deduce the truth. Negative emotions overwhelmed him as he scolded Erica. "Why would you do that? Can't you think about your own health?" "What do you mean?" Erica pretended not to understand Ansel's intentions. "Erica, please answer my question honestly," Ansel urged, but she avoided making eye contact. Once again, Erica chose to evade rather than face the situation directly, leaving Ans
Ansel looked deeply into Erica's eyes and smiled gently, saying, "Erica, can we share the blanket? Lie close to each other and enjoy the warmth, can we?" Finally, Ansel mustered up the courage to bring up the idea he had shelved earlier. Erica had already surrendered to Ansel's tenderness and nodded in agreement. "We will just sleep, nothing beyond that. You can trust me," Ansel added. Although he knew Erica didn't need his reassurance, Ansel thought it was best to assure her and gain her trust. "Really?" Erica hesitated, innocently asking for confirmation. "Absolutely," Ansel replied. "So, where will we go?" Erica intended to ask where they would sleep. "Let's go to the room." Like reading Erica's mind. Ansel interrupted, surprising Erica. “The sofa is not enough for two.” Ansel continued casually: “The floor is hard and cold. I don't want to wake up with a backache." The look on Ansel's face when describing the scene of having to lie on the floor looked funny. Erica couldn't
Ansel and Erica stepped into the elevator, preparing to go up to the floor where Ansel's mother was resting. Observing the worry and tension on Ansel's face, Erica gently placed her hand on his arm and offered words of encouragement. "Ansel," Erica said sincerely, "I know this is a difficult time for you. But remember, anything good that happens comes with sacrifices. If you've made up your mind, be firm with your choice. I believe your sincerity will change your mother's opinion. And don't forget, you have my support." Ansel glanced at Erica, appreciating her understanding and encouragement. He smiled at her and took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing thoughts. The elevator doors opened, revealing a hallway leading to his mother's room. Ansel took a determined step forward, with Erica closely following behind him. As they approached the door, Ansel hesitated for a moment. Doubts and fears flooded his mind, but Erica's presence reassured him. With newfound determination, he re
After informing Mrs. Hani that he was on his way to the hospital. Ansel and Erica intentionally stood outside the room for a while instead of immediately opening the door and entering the room. Ansel's purpose is for Desi to leave knowing that Ansel is coming. However, Desi shamelessly wanted to stay and meet Ansel. After observing that Desi was refusing to leave, Ansel had no choice but to appear to meet Mrs. Hani while also trying to find out what Desi's intentions were. Ansel pushed the door open and entered the room just as Desi was meticulously adjusting her appearance. Upon seeing Ansel's arrival, Desi quickly tucked her lipstick into her purse. A radiant smile on Desi's face, as if welcoming Ansel, immediately faded when her gaze fell upon Erica standing behind Ansel. Even Mrs. Hani, who was eagerly anticipating Ansel's arrival, appeared dissatisfied upon seeing Erica. Mrs. Hani wasted no time reprimanding Ansel directly in front of Desi and Erica. "Ansel, why didn't you tell
The sight of Erica nestled in Ansel's arms easily captured the attention of Mrs. Hani and Desi, as it happened right before their eyes. "Erica, are you okay?" Ansel tenderly asked Erica, causing Desi to become infuriated and blush with jealousy. Desi couldn't help but feel envious of Erica receiving Ansel's caring and gentle treatment. On the other hand, Mrs. Hani displayed her discomfort openly. As for Erica, a mixture of embarrassment and happiness flooded her when Ansel embraced her. She had to exert great effort to control the chaotic emotions that yearned to burst forth upon encountering Ansel's affectionate gaze. When asked, Erica shook her head and smiled gently, saying, "I'm fine, thanks to you." After helping Erica regain her balance, Ansel looked at his mother with annoyance and asked, "What are you doing?" "I should be asking you that question. What are you trying to achieve, Ansel?" "I've already explained. Erica is a doctor. I want her to check your health." "She's a
Erica caught up with Ansel as he arrived at the parking lot. Seeing Ansel about to get into the car, Erica quickly ran closer and firmly grabbed Ansel's hand, preventing him from stepping into the vehicle. Erica's action surprised Ansel. "Erica, what's wrong?" Ansel asked, his voice a little dry and his face heavy from his still anger. Erica took a deep breath, adjusting her breathing, before saying: “Ansel,” Erica said in a low voice, her eyes full of concern. "I think before you get in the car, you should calm down. It's all for your safety." Ansel realizes that Erica only wants the best for him. So Ansel tried to smile but couldn't hide the tension in his eyes. "I know I'm a bit tense," Ansel admitted, "but I think driving will help me forget those negative thoughts." Erica placed her hands on Ansel's shoulders, gently yet resolutely. "Ansel, I understand how you feel. But driving in an unstable state of mind can be dangerous for both you and others on the road. Sometimes, we