Chapter 12: Will You Protect Me?
Jesse didn’t know what to say. Yelena couldn’t stand it anymore and retorted coldly, “Jesse was afraid of upsetting you. That’s why he was hiding at the door. You’re always against him. Do you even deserve to be called his brother?”
Caleb simply didn’t care. “I was never part of the Quixall family, let alone his brother. The words come from his mouth. I can’t control what he calls me.”
When Yelena saw blood seep from his wound again, her heart softened. “Stop this now. Come home with me. We have a doctor at home. If you don’t want to stay in the hospital, come back home, and they can treat you.”
Caleb remained silent, his expression indifferent. “That’s not my home, and the people who push me into hell aren’t my family.”
Eventually, Yelena’s expression lost its luster, and she left on her high heels. Jesse stole a glance at Caleb, hesitant to speak, before ultimately following Yelena.
The doctor urged, “Mr. Jenkins, we really should dress your wound. If left untreated, it’s highly susceptible to infection…”
Caleb waved his hand dismissively. “No need. I’m about to be discharged from the hospital. This minor injury is nothing to worry about.”
The doctor, aware of his stubbornness, sighed and chose not to insist further. Wiping away his blood, Caleb picked up his suitcase, ready to leave.
Gianna hastily followed suit. “Caleb, where are you headed? Let me give you a ride!”
Caleb ignored her, but Gianna was not disheartened. “Mr. and Mrs. Quixall sent me here. They insisted that I keep a close eye on you.”
Caleb spoke nonchalantly, “I’ve severed ties with them. You don’t have to follow me around anymore.”
“That won’t do. I’ve already made a promise to them, and I absolutely have to follow through.” Gianna’s continued insistence made Caleb feel somewhat resigned.
“Suit yourself.” He made his way to a bar, where he promptly started pouring drinks down his throat without a care in the world. The place was steeped in the overpowering scent of alcohol, with the pervasive smell of men’s sweat hanging in the air.
He thought Gianna would be overwhelmed and leave after a while. To his surprise, Gianna ordered the waiter to bring three more bottles of beer and began to drink with Caleb.
“You can’t outdrink me. Go home.” When Caleb opened his mouth, the scent of alcohol was evident.
Gianna didn’t show any signs of disdain and replied with a beaming smile, “How would we know if I don’t give it a try?” She raised her bottle and drank heartily, earning applause and cheers from the patrons at the other tables.
“Miss, you sure can hold your liquor!”
“Bring another bottle. Oh yeah!” Gianna paid them no mind, her eyes sparkling with allure. “Caleb, am I a good drinker?”
Caleb circled around once. “Someone has their eye on you. Be careful not to play with fire.”
Gianna chuckled, the scent of alcohol mingling with her natural fragrance washing over Caleb. “Will you protect me then?”
She had always been serene, but for some reason, she was unusually bold that day. Caleb couldn’t help but think many things had changed in five years.
Seeing Caleb remain silent, Gianna downed another bottle. A blush tinted her cheeks, and her radiant beauty was so intense that it was hard for anyone to look directly at her. “Caleb, would you take me away before others make their move on me?”
Caleb gently pushed away her face, which was gradually moving closer to his. “You’ve had too much to drink. Have someone take you home.”
Gianna pursed her lips. “Driving me away again? I refuse!” She tilted her head, resting it on Caleb’s shoulder. The more Caleb pushed away, the closer she leaned into him. Their intimacy was so intense that it could have caused a spark.
“Gianna!” With a low grunt, Caleb expressed his annoyance. Gianna, on the other hand, decided to feign drunkenness, playing dumb while nestled in his arms.
The sound of footsteps drew closer, prompting Caleb to turn around and see a familiar face. Raquel’s breath was uneven as she pointed at Caleb’s nose and scolded him. “You… You shameless couple!”