Jasper knew mentioning the issues in the Harper family would only upset Landon, so he rarely brought it up, though it remained an area of concern for him.
Alyssa continued, âMrs. Harper is a woman with traditional beliefs. After her husbandâs unfortunate passing, the hope of the family now lies on Landonâs shoulders.
âIf she already has a grudge against Betty, how could Lauren ever make it past her? Landon adores and respects his mother.
âDo you think heâd challenge her just to be with Lauren? Donât forget that cunning sister of his, too, whoâs differently? been using Betty as a pawn to get her way. Do you think sheâd treat Lauren any âIf Lauren really stays by Landonâs side, it would upset his entire family system and only cause more disturbance to her life. Would Lauren truly be happy, then?
âEven if Landon loved her with all her might, their love would slowly crumble under the weight of all these obstacles sooner or later. Not to mention how innocent Lauren is-what could she do to even fight back.
against them?â
Alyssaâs eyes were red-rimmed with unshed tears by now.
Jasper gazed longingly at her, a sharp warmth filling his heart alongside guilt and regret.
She was projecting her own suffering and torment from their three years of marriage onto Lauren. This he knew very well.
Alyssa hadnât let go of her pain. Sheâd only forced it down her throat each time she was reminded of it, behind bitter tears and choked sobs.
Alyssa had nothing more to say any longer. If Jasper insisted on supporting Landon, she would just opt to do things her way.
Just as she was about to leave, Jasper marched up and hugged her from behind, wrapping his arms around her.
âYouâ Alyssaâs breathing hitched in shock.
âIâm so sorry. It was all my fault for upsetting you. I wonât bring it up again if it makes you unhappy, I wonât Jasperâs arm was around her waist and shoulder, hugging her tightly, as if wanting to melt into one with her.
Alyssa tensed up instantly, shivering with how close his voice was to her ear. âLet go, Jasperâ¦
Her voice was so meek and soft, as if she didnât really want him to let go.
âNo.â Jasper nuzzled his way into her neck. âIâm not a greedy man, Lyse. But I can never have enough of you. Not with hugging or kissing.â
Even his words of confession were so brutally honest. It made Alyssaâs heart skip.
âLyse.â
Just then, another voice called out from behind them, soft yet stern.