Crises in Love (Zora and Jaylan)
Chapter 446

Zora shot me a glare sharp enough to slice through steel before storming back to the ward.

Jaylan shot me a sidelong glance and began to explain in a hushed tone, "I couldn't find anyone on short notice, so she stepped in to look after my mom."

I cursed silently. What did I care?

But I forced a smile, all sweetness and light. "That's wonderful! She's perfect for the job!"

No sooner had words left my mouth than my phone chirped. A quick glance told me it was Ronan calling. I excused myself and stepped away, Jaylan calling after me, "Allie..."

Not missing a beat, I continued to walk away.

I answered the call and heard Ronan's voice, "Aaliyah!"

"Yes?"

"Addrion and I have just landed in Goldenvale Town," Ronan's voice was irresistibly charming.

"Oh?" I gasped, a surge of joy flooding me. Addrion was coming home at last. But out of the corner of my eye, I saw Jaylan still watching me, so I reined in my excitement and asked nonchalantly, "Back already?"

Ronan detected the off-note in my voice. "Bad timing? We'll talk later then."

"Sure! Text me where you're staying," I said, and he agreed before hanging up.

I wondered if this time, Addrion would truly come home.

"Allie..." Another soft call.

I glanced back to see Jaylan approaching, his tone uncharacteristically gentle. "Look, Allie... about what I said yesterday, I was heated. Forgive me. Let's sit down somewhere calm and talk it over, okay?" I gave him a knowing smile. "Your actions speak louder than any talk. We'll discuss this tomorrow." With that, I shot Hannah a look and strode away.

Jaylan probably misunderstood my words and chased after me, "Tomorrow, then. I'll be waiting for you, Allie. Think it over."

I chuckled to myself, mentally snide. Let him wait. He'd get his answer.

Hannah caught my contented expression and teased, "Tomorrow for sure." She then asked, "Are we heading back to Cathy's?"

"No, let's grab a bite and check out some houses. I need a safe place to stay ASAP. It's not safe here, and frankly, it's filthy." I shared my thoughts with Hannah as we walked.

And then, with a bit of urgency, I added, "Help me look for a secure location. A detached house, something with space between neighbors, and a good-sized property. I've got three kids to think about." "You got it!" Hannah replied, already speeding up toward our next destination.

I sat there, lost in thought, idly playing with the wallet Hazel had given me. It was a small, weathered LV cardholder, clearly many years old.

Hannah glanced at the wallet and remarked casually, "Never thought Hazel would actually do this. Guess she really does adore Evan!"

I looked down at the wallet in my hand, replying flatly, "Not necessarily. Her heart isn't truly with anyone. It's guilt and fear. That burn scare must've really shaken her up."

Hannah chuckled. "Exactly. Otherwise, she wouldn't have freaked out over her grandson's death. Did you see her face that day? Unless she's incredibly slow on the uptake..."

"Do you remember?" I asked. "When I went to her about the burial plot, she couldn't object. She's scared because she's guilty. And she knows I'm the only one who can handle it." "No wonder she gave you her money to take care of it," Hannah said.

"The other Dawsons wouldn't bother. They're too cold-hearted. They wouldn't even help Hazel secure a burial site for Evan now that he's gone."

I unzipped the wallet to find a bank card and a tiny notebook inside.

I flipped through it, noting some phone numbers, then tossed it back. I mused, "Hazel is truly obsessed with her wealth. She's dying, yet clings to her purse."

Her grip was tight, but now, she had let go. It was as if the old saying was true - the dying become kind. I couldn't help but smirk.

Curious, Hannah inquired, "What's so funny?"

"I'm amazed Hazel trusted me with her money. She must know her time is short." After a beat, I added, "Not that I'm wishing it on her!" Hannah burst into laughter. "Why explain? If she goes, no great loss."

With a sigh, I attempted to zip up the wallet and accidentally brushed against something hard inside.