His Destructive, Toxic Love novel Chapter 500

Her fingertips pressed into her palm, and just as he stepped onto the stairs, she called out, "Casper."

He stopped in his tracks, gripping the stair railing tightly. He didn't dare look back, unsure of what she was about to say.

"Casper, why don't we give it a shot? Let's see this as our last chance. No suspicions, no old grudges. Let's start fresh."

"Hi, I'm Eliza, an art teacher, twenty-six years old."

For the first time, she extended her hand to him. This was the outcome of countless internal battles. Whether she and Casper could start anew or not, for Brock's sake, and for that last tiny spark of love she had left, it was worth a try. She didn't want a future filled with regret and what-ifs.

Casper stood there, momentarily stunned, turning slowly as if he was a rusty old machine. He looked calm but couldn't hide the excitement and joy bubbling inside him.

"Nice to meet you."

With a composed smile, his large hand finally clasped hers. No hugs, no kisses, just a polite handshake. Like they were meeting for the first time.

Tall and short, their shadows didn't overlap, but they stood in perfect harmony on a parallel line.

On the weekend, Eliza and Casper went back to Falconridge. They stood at the kindergarten gates like any other parents, waiting to pick up Brock.

While they waited, he suggested they take Brock on a family camping trip. Eliza agreed. Brock had rarely done outdoor activities since she was always busy and lacked the means.

Watching the kindergarten teacher leading the children out, Eliza stood on her tiptoes to get a better view. Brock, with his little backpack, said goodbye to his teacher and joyfully ran towards her.

"Mommy..."