Let's Start All Over Again, Shall We?

Chapter 382: When Did You Start Having Feelings for Me?

Maggie was on the verge of tears after hearing those simple words: "Home." For two lifetimes, she had considered the Camerons her family and home, but it was all a deception. Could she return now?

"Ericko," Maggie said slowly, "I need some time to decide."

Ericko frowned and gently asked, "Why?"

"I want to wait until the Camerons are completely bankrupt," Maggie offered, her excuse unconvincing. "Otherwise, I'm afraid they might harm my parents because of me."

"They're already planning to harm Mom," Ericko's gentle voice carried a hint of authority. "Whether you go back to the Adams or not won't change their minds. But I'm worried about you being alone. If something happens, I won't be able to explain it to Mom and Dad."

The Camerons' use of Maggie as a pawn had been ineffective, even backfiring. Ericko's biggest fear was Ronald's revenge. Desperate measures often followed desperation.

"I'll take some time to think about it," Maggie said, expressing her reservations, "but I still want to settle things with the Camerons and talk to Mom and Dad calmly."

Though Ericko disagreed, he didn't push the issue; she hadn't severed ties with the Camerons yet.

After hanging up, Maggie felt the pressure in her chest intensify. Dealing with both Nathael and Ericko was overwhelming.

That evening, Nathael finished work early and took Maggie for a walk. It wasn't snowing on Christmas Eve, but yesterday's snow created a festive atmosphere. They strolled along the commercial street. Maggie bought some clothes and bags, but her enthusiasm was lacking.

"Are you feeling low?" Nathael asked, holding her hand.

"Not really," Maggie said softly, "but thinking about the Camerons makes me question human nature. It's challenging my understanding and imagination." Nathael didn't respond, but his grip tightened.

Chapter 382: When Did You Start Having Feelings for Me?

Maggie hesitated before answering. "What do you mean?"

"Like what will happen to the Camerons… or us," Nathael said slowly.

Maggie stopped, speechless for a moment. The dazzling commercial signs cast luxurious light and shadows, brightening the street. Standing in the middle of the road, Maggie adjusted her scarf, a lump forming in her throat. She could hear the wind, snow, laughter, and music; yet, it felt like only they existed. The world was bustling, yet strangely quiet.

The words, "I want to break up with you," were on Maggie's lips, but she couldn't say them. Nathael didn't rush her; he listened patiently.

After a while, Maggie tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear and said softly, "We'll always be together, always happy, despite arguments and misunderstandings. We'll face life together, and even in death, we'll be buried next to each other."

As she spoke, her past life flashed before her eyes. She knew being vague wouldn't convince him. This was perfect. Even though their love was painful and short-lived, those moments were her true happiness.

Nathael kissed her softly and held her close.

"Nana," he whispered, "I'm always afraid this is a dream, that one day it might vanish."

Maggie's throat tightened, her nose prickling with sadness. She hadn't told him how much she loved him. Now, she had to figure out how to end things and what reasons would convince him.

At home, Maggie retrieved two red apples Nathael had picked. She washed them carefully and shared them while they watched TV. The apples were large, crimson, and delicious. Though her eyes were on the screen, her mind wandered. My dear Mr. Harris, you must live well. Even if I'm not around, the sun will rise and set. And I'll strive to live, to make the most of every moment, to extend my time with you as much as possible, even if it means being in a different part of the world.

Chapter 382: When Did You Start Having Feelings for Me?

Snuggling close, they watched a TV show where the characters watched the sunrise together. "I'd like to do that too," Maggie whispered.

"Let's go tomorrow," Nathael suggested.

Maggie didn't want to trouble him. He often worked late to spend time with her.

"Sure," she agreed, closing her eyes, uncertain if they'd have another chance.

"Nathael," Maggie murmured softly.

"Yeah?" Nathael, noticing her weariness, spoke gently, creating a warm atmosphere.

"When did you start having feelings for me?" Maggie asked, her curiosity stemming from both lives.

Nathael was quiet for a while. "A long time ago, back at Sunshine Orphanage."

Maggie was stunned. "You saw me at the orphanage?"

After escaping the Camerons' thugs and suffering amnesia, Maggie ended up at the orphanage. Given her age and trauma, it wasn't surprising she didn't remember. Someone kindly placed her there. Later, when the Camerons found her, Ronald let her stay for two years, observing her before adopting her. They gave her a new life, and she was grateful. But why didn't she remember Nathael?

"Are you telling me you were visiting the orphanage representing the Harrises and fell in love with me instantly because of my beauty?" Maggie blinked.

Nathael chuckled softly. "No, I was living there too."

"How's that possible?"

Nathael explained slowly, "Uncle Charlie sacrificed himself to save me, and my extended family had someone else take the blame for the ambush. The mastermind remained unknown. Later, my grandfather staged a kidnapping to protect me and secretly sent me to the orphanage. It was for my safety, to test people's reactions, draw out the culprits, and as a test and training for me. He didn't inform anyone of the kidnapping."

Maggie was speechless, staring blankly, unable to reconcile the vague memories.

Chapter 382: When Did You Start Having Feelings for Me?

If there had been such a handsome boy at the orphanage, she surely would have remembered him.