"Blair is so brave! Our leader's a lucky guy. If a gal proposed to me like that, I'd say yes in a heartbeat," a soldier cried.
Wesley silently stared at Blair, paying no attention to his men's enthusiastic discussions. She was dressed in an elaborate wedding gown.
Finally, he said gruffly, "I'm a soldier. My life belongs to the country, and I would die for my fellow citizens. But it's too dangerous to get involved. I don't want to put your life in danger too." He had been ready to shed blood for his country and people long before. His life was not his own.
Blair took in his meaning. She figured he was worried about getting her hurt or killed. With hopes in her heart, she shook her head. "I want to be with you. I'm not afraid! I'm an orphan, so they can't really go after my family." The moment she fell in love with him, she knew the risks. She already had an answer ready for that.
The Ji family members were her only close relatives now. Her uncle and aunt would take care of her grandpa, while her two cousins would take care of her uncle and aunt. They were a strong family. Blair didn't need to worry about anyone else. She could just stand at Wesley's side and share life and death with him.
Wesley could see the determination in the girl's eyes. She was serious. But he still tried to change her mind. "Think about your uncle and your cousins. They would still be in danger."
After a pause, Blair said honestly, "Well, my uncle is our biggest cheerleader. He's the matchmaker and I got his approval before coming here today."
So he finally had his suspicions confirmed. He knew it. They were conducting military exercises here. No cars were allowed to drive into the training area without permission from the higher ups.
Wesley had wanted to frighten her away by laying out what she might have to go through. But it didn't work on this brave girl.
She was young and should have a bright and happy future. However, there was no telling if he would come back safe and sound from the next dangerous mission. His future was unpredictable. With that in mind, Wesley refused bluntly, "No."
He was calm. He didn't raise his voice, but it was loud enough to be heard by everyone standing nearby. Everyone was stunned, including Blair.
She had chosen to do it this way. In front of everyone. It would be bold, and eye-catching. And since he seemed to like her, she figured that this would definitely work. He wouldn't be cruel and turn her down heartlessly. Even if he wanted to say no, he'd have to say yes, and then turn her down in private. Of course, it wouldn't work. She'd hold him to his word. He said yes, so she'd badger him till he finally broke down and decided to be with her.
But she hadn't anticipated this. Her plans failed. Or maybe she had been thinking too highly of herself. She wasn't that important to Wesley.
Suppressing the surging emotions in her heart, Blair forced a smile and said, "This is a turning point, Wesley. It's now or never. If you say no, I'll turn another page in my life and try to forget you. If you say yes, I'll love you with all my heart and soul. Think carefully before you answer."
Wesley didn't answer, but instead turned to his men. His loud and powerful voice echoed around the training ground. "Ten-hut!"
The soldiers, who were watching the show curiously a few seconds ago, immediately returned to their serious selves, and lined up in orderly rows.
But a few of them still looked at Blair with compassion in their eyes.
"Everyone, listen up! Obstacle course! Whoever fails to get to the end will get a 5k run in full gear!" he ordered.
Blair looked at him, but his back was turned. She wanted to call out to him and ask him why he didn't love her. Wasn't she hot enough? Or just not his type?
But she never had the chance to confront him. He anxiously joined his men and ran off as the troops marched over to the obstacle course. Blair stood rooted to the spot, watching him running farther and farther away, as if he were being gradually erased from her mind.
Joslyn felt her heart ache for Blair. She hugged the sad girl tightly, hoping to give her a little comfort.
With her eyes reddened from tears, Joslyn cursed, "He's such a jerk. He needs his eyes checked. You're such an awesome chica and he still blows you off. I hate him! Forget him, okay? I'll introduce you to some guys who are worth your time."
The troops completely disappeared from sight. Blair shifted her eyes to Joslyn. She smiled and nodded, "Good idea! I'm young. I'm gorgeous. Why should I keep pursuing someone who doesn't want me?"
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