Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)

Chapter 2237

Time seemed to stretch into eternity before the doorbell rang. She made her way to the door, opening it to find a familiar figure that made her heart skip a beat.

Jason stood there, wrapped in a long coat, a chill emanating from him as if he carried the winter breeze on his shoulders. His deep-set eyes were hidden behind glasses, his demeanor unreadable yet carrying a hint of concern and restraint.

Tears welled up in Sophia's eyes as she choked out, "What are you doing here?"

Stepping inside, Jason held up a thermos, "Have you eaten anything?"

"Just a little."

"Go wash your face, then come and eat," Jason said, heading toward the dining area.

"I just washed my face," Sophia replied, following him.

"Go wash it again, and no more tears!" Jason insisted with gentle firmness.

Obediently, Sophia went to freshen up.

By the time she returned, Jason had laid out a feast of her favorite dishes. The comforting smell of the food seemed to soothe her turmoil, even if only slightly.

"Forget everything else for now. Eat," Jason handed her the utensils, adding, "Someone once told me, no matter what's going on, eating is the most important thing."

Sophia managed a weak smile and began to eat, despite feeling a tightness in her chest. She ate slowly, mindful not to waste any food. Jason watched her from across the table, his heart aching as he saw her struggle to hold back tears.

After Sophia finished eating, Jason handed her a tissue and took the dishes to the kitchen. His voice was soft but firm, "Clean up, then tell me what happened."

Sophia watched him busy in the kitchen, then settled back on the couch, feeling slightly less burdened by her troubles.

Jason returned with a cup of calming tea, offering it to her, "Tell me everything."NôvelD(ram)a.ôrg owns this content.

Holding the warm cup, Sophia felt a bit more at ease as she recounted the day's events to Jason.

Jason's expression darkened, his aura turning cold as he suddenly stood up to leave.

"Jason!"

Sophia called out, rushing after him, barefoot, and grabbed his arm, "Please don't go!"

She knew he was ready to confront the source of her distress.

Jason turned around, the words spilling out, "Did I raise you just to see you mistreated like this?"

Sophia froze, taken aback by the intensity of his anger.

With his heart racing, Jason knew he

couldn't add to her stress. He calmed himself, saying, "Your

parents aren't here. It's my responsibility to look after you. I can't let anyone hurt you like this.

He tried to leave, but Sophia clung to him, pleading, "Please, don't do this!"

"What are you afraid of?" Jason's gaze was icy, his expression tense.

"I'm not afraid," Sophia said, her

voice shaky. "It just feels like admitting defeat, as if I can't up for myself." Content belon

Jason looked at her, perplexed.

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Sophia dragged him back to the couch, her eyes brimming with tears, "Resorting to fights is what children do."

"Should a parent just stand by when their child is bullied?" Jason countered.

"I can't rely on you for everything. Let me handle this," Sophia insisted softly.

"And how do you plan to do that?" Jason asked.

"With everything that's happened, breaking up is the only option,"

Sophia said, her voice filled wire

mix of anger and resignation.

Jason's expression darkened, but he remained silent.

a

Sitting beside him, Sophia looked down, "Is it true that in love, the one who falls first is always taken for granted?"

A self-mocking smile touched Jason's lips as he nodded, "Yes."