Crises in Love (Zora and Jaylan) novel Chapter 362

That night, sleep eluded me, nerves inexplicably on edge.

Jaylan and Gemma's conversation tossed and turned in my mind. Gemma was a ticking time bomb, and if she exploded, it would be my dearest who'd suffer. I couldn't let my parents be threatened because of me. Yet, it wasn't time to cast her out entirely.

Moreover, if Gemma was involved, undoubtedly others would be too. The only viable solution seemed to be reversing the roles, turning her into my pawn. With that thought, my mind settled somewhat.

As for how to do it, I needed the right opportunity.

The next day.

Before I could even rub the sleep from my eyes, I was jolted awake by persistent knocking.

Groggy and grumpy, I opened the door to find Jaylan, all buttoned-up and proper. I had complained about his snoring the night before, prompting him to retreat to the guest room.

I figured he wanted his own space too. After all, Goldenvale Town was a mess.

"What's up?" I asked, not hiding my irritation. "Why so dressed up? You don't sleep or what?"

"Allie, still half-asleep?" he said with a placating smile. "Did you have a rough night? It's nine already, and we've got important stuff today!"

"Nine?" I was startled, apparently having overslept. But I was still petulant. "So what? I'm going back to bed. You and Dad can handle it."

After that, I tried to shut the door, but he wedged his foot in, "Honey, it really is crucial today. Dad says you need to be there. We'll come back and you can sleep all you want, okay?"

I turned, flopped back onto the bed, and he rushed in, cajoling me with all his might.

I just wanted to test how desperate he was. Why else would I let him sweet-talk me? The sight of him was becoming as repulsive as maggots.

"Enough!" I finally snapped, exasperated. "Get out, I'm getting ready!"

He reluctantly left after a few more reminders.