Can’t Win Me Back

After a while, Alyssa realized Jasper had disappeared. Leaving the party on her own, she ran into Mrs.

Rosie in the corridor. "Mrs. Rosie, have you seen Jasper?"

"Mr. Jasper went back to his room. I knocked on his door for a long time, but he wouldn't open it,"

Rosie replied, shaking her head. "With everyone here tonight, enjoying such a lively occasion, I don't

understand why he's isolating himself like a depressed teenager. It's so lame of him to call it a night this

early."

Alyssa frowned, her smile wry. She felt concerned, aware of how downcast Jasper could be on his

mother's death anniversary. Moreover, the confrontation with Javier at the cemetery likely brought back

painful memories. Returning to such a lively home must have stirred up his emotions.

"Mrs. Rosie, could you please entertain our guests on the balcony? I'll go check on Jasper."

the room's door, taking a brief

there?"

There was no response.

and enjoy the delicious food

Jasper was silent.

upset about what happened today. I understand that you must

the same way when I visit my mother every

door panel, her voice as gentle as a dove. "Don't worry. I

treat you really well from now on. I know

Grandpa, Mrs. Rosie...

my whole family with you. Family, friends, the love of your life.

anyone could have."

finish,

abruptly pulled into the darkness. In the next moment, the door shut

pressed her against the door in the

slowly warmed up.