The Wrong Woman

Cole let out a sigh and said, "If there's anything that bothers you in the future or anything you dislike, just tell me directly. And if there's something you like or want, please inform me as well."

Phoebe paused, feeling a bit nervous as she swallowed her apple. Her heart started to beat a little faster as she stammered, "Wh-why should I do that?"

Cole explained in a sincere and gentle tone, "Men's thoughts are typically straightforward, and we can't always grasp all the nuances of women's feelings.

"Those who attempt to decipher every detail of a woman's mind may appear to be love experts, but more often than not, they're simply players."

Phoebe blushed, a blend of nerves and curiosity bubbling within her. "Why should I share what I want with you?"

"Because if you do, I can fulfill your wishes," Cole explained anxiously.

Phoebe's nervousness intensified, prompting her to ask once more, "But why do you want to do that for me?"

Cole hesitated, his gaze intensifying as he struggled to articulate his feelings. "Be-because... I..."

The words "I like you" stayed lodged in Cole's throat, impossible to voice. His cheeks flushed red with embarrassment, apprehensive of the potential for rejection.

Cole found himself in uncharted territory. He had never felt this way about anyone before, never pursued a woman, and lacked experience in handling such emotions.

Nervously, Cole rose to his feet, his eyes darting around the room as he wrestled with his inner turmoil.

Unbeknownst to Cole, Phoebe eagerly awaited his words, hoping for a declaration of his feelings.

Despite her anticipation, Cole struggled to muster the courage to speak up. Instead, his focus shifted to Nathan, who stood lost in thought outside the door, leaning against the opposite wall.

General Morrison?" Cole remarked as he stood and headed

Phoebe indeed spotted

out and approached Nathan. "General Morrison, you're here too. Why don't you

a faint smile. "I'll join you once

back of his head, feeling his ears flush with

smile, Nathan stepped into

some resentment toward Nathan, Phoebe greeted him politely, "Hello, Mr.

walked over to the foot of the bed and rested his hands on the railings. "How

responded calmly, "Thankfully, I didn't injure any vital organs, so it's not too

grew serious. "Please, tell me about what transpired that

proceeded to narrate the events of that

his expression filled with concern as he focused

absorbed the details,

could Oliver be the

and decisive, "No, it's highly unlikely. Oliver is

unlikely? Oliver, that deranged lunatic, even orchestrated the bombing that killed Madam Hoffis.

nodded in agreement, echoing Cole's sentiment, "I agree with Cole. It

the

rational perspective, stating,