Chapter 77

Waylon lowered his eyes. "I left the country because of my mother. Back then, her health was failing-her mind, too. She needed care, far from here. And,honestly,my family's chaos didn't help. According to their plan, I was never meant to come back at all."

Something in his tone sent a ripple through Alexia.She hesitated before asking, "Now that you're here again,your mom...?"

"She's gone."

That revelation left Alexia wordless, the air between them heavy.

Waylonbusied himself with the bandages, wrapping her wounds with practiced hands. "When her illness took hold, she became anxious and possessive. She cut me off from everyone I knew. But I can't hold it against her-she was sick. I remember who she used to be. She was extraordinary, before all that."

Once the last knot was tied, he met her eyes, earnest and unguarded. "I owe you an apology."

A gentle ache stirred in Alexia's chest, as if an old at rhost wound was being touched.

She shook her head. "You don't need to be sorry."

This time, she finally forgave him.

She'd always known what Waylon's family had been through. His mother,Jordyn Mason,was Cowan's only daughter, and three decades ago, she had been the brightest star in the upper circles. Graceful,generous,and remarkably gifted, she drew admirers wherever she went.

Despite her allure, Jordyn never married. Waylon was born with no father in sight-a fact that drew its share of whispers. But as the years passed, the gossip faded into silence.

No one in the city could rival Waylon. He had grown into the Mason family's living legacy, eclipsing every shadow that came before him. Yet behind all that strength stood Jordyn, whose careful guidance shaped his early years.

The car glided smoothly to a stop at Orchid Estate.

Confused, Alexia glanced out the window. "Why are we at your place?"

Waylon answered matter-of-factly, "Santino will look you over, just to be sure. You'll stay here tonight-it's easier that way."

"Butlreally am fine. These wounds don't even count,"she replied, but then caught the uhyielding look in Waylon's eyes-one that made it clear the decision was not up for dlebate.

"Fine. One check-up. You win." With a sigh, Alexia gave in, the fight going out of her.

Waylon seemed pleased with her answer, his face relaxing. "Any cravings for dinner?"

Alexia wasted no time rattling off a list-one fiery,rich dish after another, each more decadent than the last.The longer she went on, the deeper Waylon's frown dug in.

"You just got hurt. None of that for now. You need something light."

Alexia slumped in disappointment. "So what was the point in asking?"

A sly grin played on Waylon's lips. "I just wanted to know what to serve you next time."

That answer made her pause, caught off guard.

Once they left the car and stepped inside, they saw Santino waiting for them. The moment he spotted Alexia, his face lit up."Alexia! It's been forever!" He opened his arms wide for a welcoming hug.

Before Santino could get any closer. Waylon slipped in front of him. voice laced with mock disapproval "Tone it down. There's no need to make a scene."

The sharpness in his words made Santino falter, nearly tripping over his own feet.

With wounded dignity, Santino shot Waylon a reproachful look. "Not a shred of appreciation!basically watched you grow up! So rude!"

Amused by their squabbling, Alexia grinned and reached out her hands. "It's been ages, Santino."

Santino had once been both Jordyn's trusted physician and the ever-patient school doctor. Back in those days, Alexia had a reputation for stubbornness and a knack for trouble, earning her more visits to the infirmary than anyone else. She was impossible to forget.

They hugged each other as Santino took a moment to study her. Though a hint of pallor lingered on her cheeks, her energy was unmistakable-far better than the last time when she was sick and heartbroken.

With a knowing look, Santino teased, "I can see it in your eyes-you've been in another scrap. When will you stop getting into trouble, even now?"

Alexia folded her arms across her chest. "It's not my requests now?"

He confirmed with a small nod. "Only if it's classical."

A rush of nostalgia hit her, and she smiled. "I never realized you could be this easygoing."

Waylon shook his head. "This isn't just a whim."

"So,what's the reason?"

His gaze softened. "I want to make you happy."