Chapter 1199

“Long time no see,” Minerva greeted Rowan, a calm composure replacing the turmoil of years past. Three years had passed since their last encounter, and the weight of their past seemed to have lifted from her. When she first went abroad, she’d occasionally thought of their entanglement, but eventually, those thoughts faded entirely. Time, it seemed, was a great healer.

“Long time no see,” Rowan replied, meeting her gaze, a heavy weight settling in his chest. The reality of their reunion struck him forcefully; her indifference was palpable, her eyes devoid of lingering emotion. Had she truly let go of everything?

Minerva smiled and nodded, unsure what to say. Glancing awkwardly at Skylar, she excused herself, “I need to go to the restroom.”

“Do you want me to go with you?” Skylar offered.

Minerva shook her head.

Rowan watched her leave, his gaze lingering until she was out of sight. Turning to Skylar, he asked, “How have you been these past few years?”

After Joe’s disappearance in Murida, Skylar had left Jipsburg, remaining away for three years. While the memory of Joe faded for many, Skylar bore the brunt of his absence, second only to Gloria. Yet, she remained in Murida, responsible and caring for Gloria, a stark contrast to the self-preservation others might have shown. This earned her the deep respect of their friends.

Skylar smiled. “Not bad. How about you?” She sensed Rowan hadn’t moved on from Minerva. Three years—not a lifetime, but not insignificant either; much could change in that time.

“I’m still the same,” Rowan admitted. “It’s good to see you doing well. If you need anything while you’re back in Jipsburg, just call me. I’ll do what I can to help.” A hint of despondency colored his words, a clear reflection of his encounter with Minerva and her cold reception.

His interest seemed diminished, until a sudden thought struck him. “Did Minerva mention her fiancé?”

Over the past three years, he'd traveled abroad, knowing her location, even waiting outside her campus, observing from afar, but never approaching. Perhaps lacking the courage. A few days ago, he learned of her return, not alone but with a boyfriend, an impending engagement. He'd investigated; the man was impressive. The news felt like a dull knife twisting in his heart.

Skylar shook her head. “She didn’t say much. You…”

“I’m a pretty boring person,” Rowan said with a wry smile. “I was the one who called off the engagement, and yet I’m the one who regrets it now. Over the past few years, I’ve realized that no one can replace her. If her fiancé treats her well, I’ll wish them the best. But if he doesn’t… I won’t let go.”

He finished, drained a glass of red wine in one gulp.

Skylar remained silent. The human heart, she mused, was undeniably complex. Often, one didn’t appreciate what one had until it was lost, the pain of absence a brutal teacher.

“Have you heard of Ned Sowle while you were in Murida?” Rowan asked abruptly.

Skylar shook her head. “No, I haven’t.”