Chapter 12

According to Mr. Hastings Senior, Alex moved out and hadn't returned because of me? But how could that be? Ever since we were kids, Alex had told me over and over that he didn't like me and didn't want me as his sister. I lowered my gaze. "Mr. Hastings Senior, I think you're mistaken. Alex—no, Mr. Hastings—has always been distant with me. I doubt my words would have any impact on him." Mr. Hastings Senior's tone softened, but he remained insistent. "Just try, please? Even if he doesn't come back, I know it's not your fault." I frowned, ready to refuse, but I hesitated as I looked up. Mr. Hastings Senior, a man I had always known to be shrewd, capable, and impeccably groomed in every way, had aged significantly. His hair had turned completely gray, his eyes were cloudy, and his gaze carried a weight of hope and longing. The powerful businessman I once admired was gone. In his place stood a father, quietly yearning for his son to come home. I swallowed the words that came to mi