Can’t Win Me Back

Jameson had witnessed brutal fights and seen the darkest aspects of humanity right here in Kontina.

Without these experiences, he might never have realized that the country's picturesque landscapes masked the dangers of a ruthless, dog-eat-dog world.

Had things been different, he might have considered this place his true home, where he could have run a regular business and lived peacefully with his mother, Lily.

Today was a rainy day.

Holding a black umbrella, Jameson arrived alone at Rose Nursing Home to visit Lily.

Across Kontina, every place he had invested in or had financial influence bore the name "rose".

It was his way of reassuring himself and keeping the memory of his distant love alive.

"How are you feeling today, Mom?" Lily sat under the awning, staring blankly at the falling rain.

Jameson gently held her hand as he sat beside her.

Her hands were just skin and bones, devoid of vitality.

With her mouth slightly agape, Lily's expression appeared blank.

She didn't seem to have heard what Jameson said.

"I'm Jimmy, Mom.

recognize me?" Jameson reminded her of

"J-J-Jimmy...

moments each day when Lily seemed more energetic, though

where's Lyse? It's been a while

that? You two mustn't

and it wasn't easy to befriend someone as

to appreciate

so you should always compromise and give in

together for a long time!" "Soon, Lyse will no longer be my

her voice, Lily asked, "Why is that?" "She will soon become your daughter-in-law." A blissful expression crossed Jameson's face, so sincere that he nearly believed his own

Lyse is going to be my

"That's great...

wonderful! I have a pair of emerald bracelets

them to me when we got

bear to wear them all this

Bring them here.

give

her future mother-in-law, it's embarrassing that I don't have much to

prepare generous

give them to her personally when she comes." Jameson's

he added, "I'll have her come meet you soon enough." After lunch with Lily, the gloomy skies unexpectedly