Chapter 942:

Hyde met Mabel’s gaze, his expression unreadable for a moment before a weak smile touched his lips. “How could you tell? Don’t worry, I’m fine,” he assured her, though his grip on the chocolate tightened, betraying his true feelings.

“Thank you, Mabel,” he murmured, a sad, wistful smile curving his mouth.

Seeing his guardedness, Mabel’s concern deepened. She reached out, clasping his hand firmly. “I’m more than just your girlfriend; I’m your partner. Whatever’s weighing on you, you don’t have to carry it alone,” she insisted urgently.

A flicker of warmth touched Hyde’s eyes, vanishing as quickly as it appeared. His smile twisted slightly. “Forget it. I’ll be better after tonight. Just don’t worry about me. Tomorrow, I’ll be the man you need me to be—your rock.”

Mabel shook her head, her reply quick and sincere. “I don’t need you to be my rock, or any version of yourself you think I want. I love you, all of you, flaws included. So please, just talk to me. Whatever it is, we’ll face it together.”

The cold wind swept through, intensifying the chill of the night. Hyde ran his tongue over his upper lip, a sly look in his eyes, though Mabel couldn’t see it. “You really don’t need to go out of your way for me,” he said smoothly. “As your girlfriend, I just want you to be happy. That’s all I need—just having you by my side.”

Mabel shook her head stubbornly. “No way! I’m not just your friend; I’m your girlfriend. If something involves you, I’m the one who should be helping.”

Feeling his distance, she brushed past him and stepped into his house.

The heating was on, but the floor felt cold against her bare feet. Mabel glanced around, taking in the space. His house lacked warmth, as if uninhabited. Hyde closed the door behind them, silently watching her. The prey had walked right into his trap, and he couldn’t help but feel pleased. He knew he wouldn’t be bored for a while.

After scanning the room for traces of other women, Mabel turned toward Hyde, who stood in the shadows. “Why is your place so empty?” she asked, her tone tinged with concern. “Tomorrow, we’re going shopping. Even if you live alone, you should take better care of yourself.”

Hyde’s response was quick. “Why should I?”

“Because you’re not alone anymore,” Mabel said confidently. “You’ve got me.”

The words barely left her lips when she realized her commitment. She sighed, softening. “Forget it. I’ll just take care of you. I’ll be coming by more often.”

Hyde’s eyes flickered, revealing a hint of reluctance. He clearly wasn’t thrilled with the idea.