The crowd's response to Ben's defense of Jamie was unexpected, with admiration replacing gossip.

"That's real courage-standing up for her in front of so many people. What a man!"

"This is what a good man looks like."

""Now that's true love."

"Miss, forced love never sweetens. Let it go. The only person getting hurt is you."

Each word hit Summer like a dagger, sharp and cutting. The situation felt laughable, painfully ironic.

After firmly standing by Jamie, Ben addressed the onlookers one last time.

"Even if Jamie were at fault, which she isn't, it's not your place to judge."

turned to Jamie, placing a protective arm around

Ben's purpose in bringing Jamie to the boutique wasn't forgotten. He was here for a reason, and that reason was

however, couldn't shake the feeling that incidents like these would only multiply

the boutique, Jamie hesitated to continue trying

soft but unwavering.

"But..."

even more. But life is too short to waste time. Do we really want to wait until we're old and lying on our deathbeds

but serious. "Think about Charlie. My mom's no longer against us. All I'm asking for is a chance to make things right, to make you

had recently reunited with Nina after years apart, their first child already grown. Yet Nina had given him a second chance, even bringing a daughter

a devoted father, completely smitten with his little girl. His social media was a constant

warmth. It was the kind of joy Ben couldn't help but

But some obstacles felt insurmountable, no matter how

today, Jamie decided to treat it as a way to fulfill a dream she thought she would never experience. It was

a suit to perfectly complement

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255