Chapter 23 Comfort
Jemima looked at Sierra, her gaze mixed with longing and frustration.
After a long pause, she spoke softly, “You may not have wronged me, but you’ve wronged yourself. It’s been so long, and I’m not angry anymore. I’m glad you came to see me. I’m fine, really.”
Tears welled up in Sierra’s eyes.
Jemima’s voice, which had hitherto always been warm and kind, now sounded distant and cold.
She was probably still angry with her. But Sierra couldn’t bring herself to ask to return to school and to be taught by Jemima again.
She had hurt Jemima. What right did she have to seek forgiveness?
Ashamed, Sierra lowered her head and said softly, “Please take care of yourself, Ms. Linden. I won’t disturb your rest now. I’m sorry.”
With that, she bowed deeply and hurriedly left the room.
Theo frowned after he saw Sierra’s tears falling as she passed by, while Jemima watched her retreating figure, her body tilting slightly as she sighed deeply.
“She used to be so bright, always smiling, full of confidence. What happened to her? Why is she so sorrowful now?” Her voice was full of compassion. “Mom, why do you care about her? She’s fine. She’s about to marry Theo’s nephew. What’s there to be sad about?
“She’s just pretending to be pitiful in front of you. I can’t stand how fake she is!” Janice sneered, her words filled with irritation.
“Enough. If there’s nothing else, go practice your piano. You’ve been hanging around me all day.” Jemima replied sharply.
“Hmph. Fine! I’ll go back!” Janice grabbed her bag and stormed off.
Jemima sighed again, her voice softening as she spoke, “I don’t hold anything against Sierra, but when I see her, I can’t help but think about when she gave up piano. It pains me. I feel sorry for her.”
Theo paused, then asked gently, “If she decided to come back and learn with you again, Aunt Jemima, would you give her another chance?”
The sky grew darker outside the hospital, and the streetlights flickered on. Sierra sat on a bench, tears falling steadily.
Theo witnessed this scene as he stepped outside. His lips tightened, and he sat beside her, offering a tissue.
Sierra looked up at him. Under the dim light, her eyes were full of tears, each drop sparkling like a pearl.
She hesitated momentarily, took the tissue from his hand, and muttered a soft “thank you“. However, Theo didn’t say anything. He simply sat quietly
beside her.
Sierra wiped the tears from her face, then glanced at him.
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