My Love Until the Last Goodbye (Mary and Maximus)

"Is it far from here?" Laura asked, a bit concerned.

"Not really. I could actually walk, but honestly, with the crutches, it's kind of uncomfortable—and risky."

"If you wait for me, I'll say goodbye to my sister and give you a ride. I'm guessing it's on the way, so..."

"No! No, you came to see your sister. You should be here with her..." Adrian said, trying to keep her from feeling like she had to help him.

"Have you seen the time? Visiting hours are almost over. I'm heading home anyway-plus, Adele needs me," said Laura, getting up from the table. "Wait here. I'll help you up when we're ready to go."

Adrian just watched as this determined girl ignored his protests and did what she wanted. There was no doubt the girl he used to know had changed. She wasn't that shy kid anymore. He was looking at a strong, independent woman now.

A woman who made her own decisions. It had taken a little over a year, but the girl he once knew had grown into a mother and a woman.noveldrama

Meanwhile, he felt ashamed of who he'd become. First, a rebellious son, and then someone whose family had found a way to control him.

They'd forced him to marry someone he didn't love-a person who somehow ended up controlling the entire relationship. And now that it was over, it was obvious things weren't going to be easy.

He didn't have a job. His studies were at risk, especially with his savings running out fast-more so now that he had to pay for the injuries caused by Alice's bodyguard.

Laura walked back to Serenity's room. Inside, only Celeste was there, waiting for Peter, and Alden, who was tending to his wife.

"Serenity, I just came up to say goodbye, but I'll be back first thing in the morning so Alden can get some rest. Celeste, are you coming with me? Want me to drop you off at home?" Laura asked, knowing she'd left in a rush earlier and had probably taken a rideshare.

"No, sweetheart, your uncle says he's on his way, so he told me to wait here. You go on home, it's getting dark. I don't want you driving too late."

"Yes, Celeste—oh my God, you're already sounding like a worried aunt..." said Laura, laughing at the situation.

"I am a worried aunt!" Celeste said, narrowing her eyes. "Hey, can I check something with you real quick?"

Serenity and Alden just watched the exchange, saying nothing. Laura and Celeste stepped out of the room, and that's when Celeste spoke seriously to her.

"Sweetie, if you're going with that guy I saw you with, please... don't do anything crazy. I know you know exactly what I mean, right?"

"Don't worry, I'm just giving him a ride. I don't want anything with him, but he's on crutches, and I don't think he has a car."

"Alright. Just remember, your little girl is waiting at home. Don't make things too easy for this young man."

"Thanks for the advice, Celeste. Don't worry, nothing's going to happen. I'm just a bit concerned after seeing the state he's in..."

"Alright, I trust what you're saying. Just be careful and don't drive home too late."

Laura finally went in to say goodbye to her sister. After that, she headed down to the cafeteria to take Adrian

home. He'd already paid the bill and was walking toward the exit.

"Adrian, didn't I tell you I was giving you a ride?" Laura said, catching up to him.

"It's really not necessary, I swear.

can go on my own. My apartment's

not far from the hospital," Adrian

replied, trying to make it soun

no big deal.

like

"Good, if it's close, even better for me. I'll drop you off and head home," said

Laura, in a tone that left no room for argument.

With no other choice, Adrian

accepted the ride. Deep down,

though he didn't want her to see where he lived-it wasn't a fancy apartment or in some exclusive neighborhood.