Out of Ashes Into His Heart novel Chapter 4

I stared at him, mouth slightly agape, utterly taken aback. I couldn't believe what I had just heard.

But as I calmed down, I realized Tom had to be joking.

He was Gavin's closest childhood friend. The two had grown up together, their bond stronger than most siblings.

That comment was probably his way of testing me on Gavin's behalf.

Even if it wasn't a test, I didn't expect him to truly help me. After all, family matters were not to be aired in public.

Suppressing my emotions, I forced a light laugh. "You're joking, Mr. White. Gavin and I are fine. What I said earlier was just in the heat of the moment."

"Oh?" Tom turned to look at me, his dark eyes unreadable, his voice low. "Is that so? Guess I overstepped, then."

I laughed dryly, choosing not to respond further.

Thankfully, Tom didn't dwell on the topic. He tactfully shifted the conversation to lighter matters.

He was witty and humorous, with a unique perspective that gradually drew my attention away from the mess involving Gavin and Mandy.

It was during our conversation that I learned Tom had left the military.

This surprised me because I remembered Gavin mentioning Tom's accomplishments in the army.

Apparently, Tom had been promoted to major six months ago, a rank that was a testament to his extraordinary capabilities. His future in the military seemed boundless.

Why would he leave? Perhaps he simply wanted to start a new chapter in life—like leveling up and switching to a new quest.

People like him and Gavin were dragons among men, favored by destiny—born to be admired and envied by ordinary people like me.

"It's been over two years, but you're still as impressive as ever, Tom."

Our casual conversation eased the tension between us, giving us enough courage to tease him slightly. My address for him naturally shifted from the formal "Mr. White" to the more familiar "Tom."

"Grace, we just saw each other at the end of last month," he replied, his tone layered with meaning as he glanced at me.

"Hmm?" I blinked, confused. "The end of last month?"

I recalled a banquet at the end of last month, one that had been both thrilling and chaotic.

But I didn't remember seeing him there. Could it have been at another event?

"Where did we meet?"

Tom only smiled, offering no answer, effectively ending the topic.

…

Soon, we arrived at Starlight Hospital.

I assumed Tom would leave after dropping me off, but to my surprise, he got out of the car as well. As we passed the hospital entrance, he even stopped to buy a basket of fruit.

I looked at him, puzzled.

"What? Don't you bring gifts when visiting elders?" Tom asked with a low chuckle.

My cheeks flushed slightly. I didn't respond, instead quickening my pace toward the hospital.

When I entered the room, Elizabeth, who had been lying on the bed, immediately sat up.

"Gracie and Gavin are here."

But when she saw that the man behind me wasn't Gavin, she froze, her pale lips trembling slightly. "Gracie, where's Gavin?"

I forced a flawless smile. "He's busy with work, getting everything ready for the wedding."