No More Waiting, She Chooses Love novel Chapter 411

Hearing his words, a sharp pang of injustice hit me, making my nose tingle with emotion. "Ernest, I can't believe how petty you're being, not even giving me a chance to explain."

"I did listen," Ernest countered. "I called you, wanting to hear your explanation, but you never picked up."

Hearing this, I could almost picture him, frantic and searching for me through security footage, only to find that I had left with Conrad Wagner.

Conrad had mentioned Ernest looking for me. Grabbing his hand, I explained, "It wasn't on purpose. I was in the infirmary."

"I know," Ernest said, his lips curving into a smile. "That's why I'm not mad. As for the call, you'll find out soon enough."

Glancing towards a building not too far off, Ernest continued, "I haven't slept or had a drink since you left last night. I'm so thirsty and tired."

His words tightened my heart, filling it with concern. As we walked home, I scolded him, "You knew I had to leave for a reason. Why wouldn't you try to get some rest? And why haven't you had anything to drink?"

He didn't reply, but thinking about his exhaustion and thirst, I dropped the subject and hurried home with him.

Once inside, Ernest dropped his bags and gently pushed me against the entryway cabinet, his eyes burning into mine.

I swallowed hard, caught in his intense look. "I've got some cold water ready for you."

"I'm jealous," he suddenly admitted, stopping me in my tracks.

I had thought we had talked through everything downstairs, and from his tone, I thought he understood. But here he was, still feeling jealous.

"I couldn't help it, I..."

Before I could finish, Ernest's lips claimed mine in a fervent kiss.

He had said he was thirsty, and he wasn't lying; his kiss was as parched as it was passionate.

"I understand, but I can't help feeling jealous," Ernest murmured between kisses, his breath uneven.

My heart ached for him. I knew that feeling all too well.

Once, Conrad had hurt me and, although he gave me reasons that I understood, it still made me uneasy.

"It won't happen again," I promised, wrapping my arms around his neck.