No More Waiting, She Chooses Love novel Chapter 848

I never imagined that the person who filled my youthful days would end up donning the robes of a monk, choosing a life of solitude and spiritual dedication.

Perhaps he had seen through the illusions of the world, perhaps he had let go of worldly desires, or maybe he had simply severed all ties of affection, leaving no room for yearning.

After returning from the Silent Wisdom Temple, I fell sick with a fever that just wouldn't break. I drifted in and out of consciousness for two whole days, dreaming of my childhood, of my parents, and of Herschel, Jacqueline, and Conrad Dustin.

In those dreams, I felt trapped, like something was holding me back, preventing me from waking up.

In my haze, I thought I heard Conrad's voice, and maybe Ernest's too, murmuring something I couldn't quite catch.

When Conrad left, the dreams finally ceased.

When I finally awoke, the sun outside was brilliantly warm, almost blinding. I raised a hand to shield my eyes from the glare, only to find it was being held.

Looking over, I saw Ernest slumped beside the bed, his dark hair glinting with a golden sheen under the sunlight, his whole presence radiant.

"Ernest," I whispered softly.

He didn't stir. I remembered how he used to be such a light sleeper, waking at the slightest noise. He must have been utterly exhausted to sleep through my voice now.

I let him be, watching him as the sunlight seemed to fuse with him.

Not long after, his eyelids fluttered, and when his gaze met mine, clarity returned to his eyes in an instant. "Licia, you're awake?"

"Yeah, I'm awake," my voice croaked slightly.

"Want some water?" Ernest asked, bringing my hand up to his lips before I could respond.

Seeing the dark circles under his eyes, I realized he must not have slept for nights on end.

"Yes, please," I admitted, feeling parched.