Chapter 1548

The more tenderly he treated her, the more she was haunted by the memory of his parents' deaths and her role as the transgressor. She had stolen their lives, shattering his once-blissful childhood. Yet he never broached the subject of his parents' demise in her presence, fearing it would distress her. They both avoided the topic, but that did not mean it ceased to exist. April's embrace graced the park, casting vibrant scenery and rejuvenating air all around. As Gilbert held her hand, guiding her along the cobblestone path with few passersby, she felt a wave of comfort she had once yearned for but believed unattainable. Now that she had it, her heart could never return to the innocence it once knew. She had grown reticent, often relying on Gilbert to initiate conversations. He would ask, and she would respond. He never found it tiresome and treated her with the same delicate attention as one would a first love. As twilight enveloped them and a cool breeze kissed their skin, Gilbert