Can't Win Me Back

Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g

Alyssa released Jasper's hand and quickly opened the car door.

"Mr. Beckett, see you there, rain or shine."

The warmth of her touch left his fingers as she withdrew, Jasper instinctively curled his fingers inward, his mouth parting to say something anything but hesitation held him back. Without waiting for his response, Alyssa slipped out of the car and disappeared into the night without a backward glance. It wasn't until she was fully gone that he whispered in a low, hoarse voice, "See you there, rain or shine."

When Alyssa returned to the parking lot, Sean was standing worriedly beside the car, waiting for her.

Seeing her approach, eyes glistening with unshed tears, he knew she had just seen Jasper. A dull ache tugged at his heart, and he was certain their conversation had been anything but pleasant.

"Ms. Alyssa, he began softly, "I know you're relentless in everything you pursue. But some things in life... they just can't be forced. Sometimes, letting go can be its own kind of freedom."

He knew his words were harsh, almost ruthless. But the last thing he wanted was to see Alyssa shattered over Jasper.

"Sean, I understand what you're trying to say... I really do." Alyssa lowered her head, her hands cold in her coat pockets, fingers clenched tight in silent resolve. "But I just want one last chance. This will be it. If those memories we shared can't reignite his feelings for me, then I'll walk away for good."

Sean's eyes stung at her words. He never imagined that someone as proud and indomitable as Alyssa would be brought to such depths over Jasper. Was this their fate? Or some twisted form of karma?

Trying to change the subject, Alyssa asked with a soft smile, "Sean, Taty's eight months along now, isn't she? I heard you're having a boy."

"Yes, we're having a boy."

A fond smile crossed Sean's face, though tinged with a hint of helplessness. "You know, once I absentmindedly mentioned wanting a daughter, and when we found out it was a boy, Taty was down for days.

"But honestly, as long as our child, I'll love them with all my heart. I just didn't want her to think I favored having a son over a daughter.

"It's not like I have a dynasty to continue. Even if I did, a queen is just as worthy-like you, Ms. Alyssa. You are KS Group's queen."

Alyssa waved his compliment away with a dismissive gesture, her expression growing serious. "I'm no queen, Sean. I'm just a high-ranking employee serving Winston and the

interests of KS Group. Everything I do is for them.

"I may not understand what pregnancy feels like, but at a time like this, you should be spending more time with Taty. You've been running yourself ragged over Project A5 and barely see her. I feel guilty for keeping you away.

"Go and spend the night at Heights new Villa tonight. I'll give you a few days off. You don't have to do anything else but spend time with Taty."

Concerned, Sean argued, "But, Ms. Alyssa, you won't have anyone to watch over you."

"I plan to give myself a few days off too."

As Alyssa pondered her upcorning meeting with Jasper, a rare, heartfelt smile spread across her face. The prospect of seeing him, rain or shine, filled her with a joy she hadn't felt in ages.

"After tomorrow, regardless of the outcome, I'm planning a short, relaxing getaway overseas. Upon my return, I'll dedicate myself to secure Project A5.'

Sean had no idea what would happen tomorrow, but he knew Alyssa's stubborn streak. He understood that further persuasion would be futile.

"Oh, one more thing, Ms. Alyssa." He picked up a black coat from the driver's seat, a puzzled look crossing his face. "Whose coat is this? Should I retum it?"

Alyssa's gaze fell, and Justin's face flashed before her eyes, igniting a wave of disgust." Dispose of it," she said coldly.