Chapter 17

"Since the last time Valerie was hurt by someone she trusted, she's been wary of forming new relationships," Zoe remarked pointedly. "To be honest, your condition isn't good. There's no guarantee it will improve." "I know," I replied with a forced smile. "But we still have to try." Zoe's brows furrowed as she glanced at the clock, silent for a moment. When the reminder bell chimed, she shrugged off her coat without hesitation. "If I were in your shoes, Jeffrey, I wouldn't drag things out with Valerie. A clean break would be better. The public wouldn't keep criticizing her, and her reputation would be spared." "And what makes you think I'm the one holding on?" "You love her," Zoe said. "You went to great lengths to win her over. How could you let her go so easily?" It seemed my feelings for Valerie had been obvious to everyone. Even Zoe, who had been abroad for years, was aware. The passion of those days had left its mark on everyone around us. Everyone, except Valerie. "But the