Chapter 2236
Chapter 2236
Alyssa wasted no time, hurrying to the hospital with Sean by her side.
As they drove, Sean noticed Alyssa's distressed look and felt a pang of deep concern. "Ms. Alyssa, you should really get some rest first. You're still weak, and pushing yourself like this isn't good for you!"
Since returning, Sean had dropped the formal address, speaking more casually when he was anxious.
'I'm fine. I'm just worried about Grandpa Newton..." Alyssa closed her tear-filled eyes. Her heart was aching with sorrow.
Newton's illness was a consequence of his heartache over his grandson Jasper, who lay unconscious from his injuries, and Alyssa, who had been like a granddaughter to Newton, was the one responsible for the situation.
When Alyssa arrived at the hospital, her suit was drenched in a cold sweat, and her legs felt like they were walking on clouds.
Ben was already waiting outside the door to the hospital ward.
"I'm sorry for being late, Mr. Gorham," Alyssa choked as tears welled up in her eyes.
"All's good as long as you're able to come. This way."
Ben made way for Alyssa. However, despite usually being fearless and straightforward, she was now standing outside the door in hesitation. She didn't have the guts to enter. She was too ashamed to do so too.
"Out of everyone in the younger generation, other than Mr. Jasper, you are the one whom Mr. Newton loves the most.'
Ben could tell what was going through Alyssa's mind. He warmly said, "Go ahead, Ms. Alyssa. Mr. Newton has been waiting for you."
When Alyssa stepped into the hospital ward, she saw Newton propped weakly against the headboard of his bed under the warm sunlight. He was half-asleep.
"Grandpa Newton..." Alyssa murmured, approaching his bedside with a heavy heart.
Newton opened his tired eyes, and a look of joy came across his sickly-looking face. With much effort, he reached out his chapped hands to her.
"Alyssa, you're here? I just knew... that you are the kindest one."
Initially, Alyssa thought that she had good control over her emotions. Contrary to her expectations, a casual greeting from Newton made her break down instantly. Like a child who felt guilty, she stood by Newton's bed and cried her eyes out.
"Grandpa Newton.... I'm sorry... It was all my fault... I caused Jasper to get hurt..."
"Oh, silly. I just knew... that you would definitely say such things when you came."
Newton held her slender and icy hands. His heart ached to see how much weight she had lost. "I have never blamed you. You must remember that no matter what happens, you will always be the one I love the most.
"I was afraid that you'd let your mind wander and blame yourself... that's why I had Ben contact you."
Alyssa's tear-streaked face evoked sympathy from anyone who saw her.
"My dear, do you know what scares me the most?" Newton let out a long sigh. "I'm afraid that if Jasper truly never wakes up, what will become of you?
"Your family members are all in Belbanks. Your brothers... They will all marry eventually and be tied down to their families.
"If Jasper never wakes up... Who will be the one who can keep you company and protect you for the rest of your life? Plus, I know that you're deeply in love with Jasper. Both of you are willing to give your lives for the other person. But if... if Jasper never wakes up-
"Don't scare yourself, Grandpa Newton. Jasper will surely regain consciousness. I'm sure he will!"
Alyssa lifted her shaking hands to wipe away the tears from the corners of her eyes. Confidently, she declared, As long as he's still unconscious, I will stay and keep watch over him by his side. Even if he ends up in this unfortunate state his whole life, I will keep on waiting for him."
"He's already in that situation. What use is there spewing such grand-sounding rubbish?"
With tears glistening in her eyes, Alyssa looked behind her. To her surprise, Javier stormed into the hospital ward with fury and hatred. He walked right up to her.
"Javier... Why are you raising your voice like that?"