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 pause before gently knocking.

there?"

There was no response.

the delicious food outside. Everyone is waiting

Jasper was silent.

upset about what happened today. I understand

I

hand on the door panel, her voice as gentle as a dove. "Don't worry.

really well from now on. I know you've always felt

Grandpa, Mrs. Rosie...

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

anyone could have."

finish, the

into the darkness. In the next moment, the door

sturdy form pressed her against the door in the dark. Their

slowly warmed up.