Can’t Win Me Back

"I-I'm sorry..." Maggie's face was as red as a tomato.

"Ms. Madison," Xavier's breath sank as he spoke softly, just enough for her to hear, "you look beautiful

today."

Maggie's face burned with embarrassment. Panicking, she hastily withdrew herself from his arms.

Jasper struggled to contain the overwhelming emotions within him. He hugged Alyssa tightly and

whispered, "Thank you for doing this, Lyse."

Alyssa leaned into Jasper's arms with a smile, reveling in her luck to have found Jasper as her other

half. "It's no big deal. I just asked everyone to come over for a meal.

"Oh, yeah. Lauren caught a chill from leaving the window open while she slept the past two days.

Landon is home caring for her. They won't be coming. He asked me to tell you to enjoy your meal and

eat their share."

"Okay." Jasper looked down at her face, his heart beating wildly as his eyes turned misty.

"Thank you, Madam Alyssa."

see Maggie. He was so touched that he found himself at

to

Maggie is my lifesaver. I've been wanting to

to find a good time to do so.

Maggie warmly. "On the

showing up."

don't say that. I'm so honored to be here. enjoying a meal!" Maggie's

panic as she rambled.

never have dreamt of attending Alyssa's gathering at her

by such an astounding group

waved at Jasper

he had not seen for a long time, said as she sipped her tea, "You're

you owe us a

heart after all that

whenever the chance arose.

Jasper said, "Okay."

enough. Jasper, don't be so conservative. Let's do

pull Jasper's leg.

aback when

won't stop until we're

banter, Axel came downstairs with ash on his face. He yelled at