Chapter 47: Past and Present
Monica wasn’t looking for Alexander.
That was what she kept telling herself as she walked through the west garden that evening.
She only needed air.
Space.
Silence.
But the moment she heard laughter near the fountain—
she stopped walking instantly.
Because she recognized the sound immediately.
Alexander.
And somehow—
he sounded lighter.
Monica slowly looked toward the garden clearing.
And there they were.
Kailey stood beside the fountain holding the silver bracelet while Alexander leaned slightly against the marble edge beside her.
Both smiling.
Not formally.
Not politely.
Genuinely.
The sight hit Monica harder than expected.
Because she rarely saw Alexander like that.
Relaxed.
Warm.
Human.
And seeing Kailey effortlessly bring that side
