Chapter 393

“Yeah, but not every time I wash my hair do I need a full shower,” he retorted, making me laugh harder. “Whatever, just hurry up before it’s morning!” I shoved him toward the bathroom, half-worried he’d drag me in with him if I lingered too long.

Hayden outwardly projects a cool, restrained demeanor—the type seemingly uninterested in women. But I knew better. Once he lets go, it's like opening the floodgates.

While he showered, I cleared the table. A habit ingrained from my parents—never leave dirty dishes overnight.

I was almost finished tidying when the doorbell rang. Initially, I dismissed it, thinking it came from another room. But it rang again, and again. Undoubtedly, it was our door.

Who would be here so late?

I wiped my hands and cautiously approached the door. Even with Hayden nearby, my instincts took over. “Who is it?”

“It’s me.”

The voice stopped me cold. It was Jace.

What was he doing here? And why so late, especially after acting as if I didn't exist earlier?

Before I could react, Jace began banging on the door. He wouldn't leave unless I opened it, and despite my reluctance, I wasn't about to create a scene in the hallway at this hour.

With a heavy sigh, I unlocked the door. Jace stood there, pale, hair slightly disheveled, his hand still raised mid-knock.

I kept my voice frigid. “What are you doing here?”

“Why didn’t you answer my calls?” Jace demanded, his words instantly reminding me of my phone buzzing earlier with Hayden.

I blinked, my gaze shifting. “I didn’t hear it… you—”

I was about to ask what was so urgent, but before I could finish, he grabbed my arm. “Come with me.”

His hand was icy, sending a chill down my spine. I yanked my arm away. “What’s wrong with you?”

His eyes were frantic. “It’s my dad. He’s not doing well.”

“What?” I froze, completely stunned.

“He started coughing up blood. The doctor said he might not make it.” Jace’s voice trembled. “He wants to see you.”

My mind went blank, a loud buzzing filling my ears. Before I arrived, Wayne assured me Matthew was fine. How could everything change so drastically?

“I’ve got a private jet ready. We need to leave now,” Jace said, pulling at my hand again.

This time, I didn’t resist. I let him lead me to the door. But after a few steps, I stopped, remembering Hayden. “Wait, I need to—”

“There’s no time!” Jace interrupted.

In all the years I’d known him, I’d never seen him so panicked. Matthew must be critically ill.

One of my greatest regrets was not being present when my parents had their accident. I’ve wondered if they were still alive in those final moments, waiting for me, hoping I'd arrive. That regret has haunted me ever since.

Now Matthew, the man who had been like a father to me, was dying. I couldn’t bear to repeat that mistake.

I could call Hayden later.

Without further thought, I left the hotel with Jace. He drove recklessly, speeding through the streets.

I clung to the car door, my heart pounding. I wanted to ask for my phone, but given his driving, I dared not speak.

After twenty agonizing minutes, we reached a private airstrip. Jace wasted no time getting me onto the plane.

“Jace, give me your phone,” I said as we prepared for takeoff.