When Family Became a Place I Couldn’t Return To novel Chapter 435

Love that wasn't returned, yet couldn’t be let go, was always hardest on Jessie.

“I’m fine,” Jessie said, forcing a smile, but her eyes slid away from Nelly’s. “I’ve thought about it. If I can’t stop myself from caring about him, then maybe I should just stay by his side for now. Even if we’re only friends, I’m okay with that.”

Nelly hesitated, knowing she probably shouldn’t, but still couldn’t help herself. “But what if you keep falling for him? What if it still ends with nothing?”

Jessie’s voice went soft. “I don’t know. I’ll probably be really sad.”

Nelly’s heart ached. She almost blurted out that Teddy was engaged, but Jessie kept going. “Even if it hurts, I want to be with him a little longer. After we finish delivering these supplies, he’s getting transferred. After that… I don’t think we’ll ever talk again.”

Nelly pressed her lips together, swallowing her words. She knew. Feelings weren’t logical or easy to control. Who would knowingly walk into heartbreak? Only someone who couldn’t let go. As long as hope was alive, people kept moving forward, no matter the pain.

Because of Jessie, Nelly found herself acting a little colder toward Teddy.

The day after they arrived in Country C, the group drove out to the disaster area. After distributing the supplies, reporters interviewed Nelly and Brody. Technically, their job was done. But when Nelly stepped out of the van, she saw Teddy and Jessie changing into protective gear. They wanted to hand out supplies themselves and check on the people who’d been affected. Nelly didn’t even hesitate. She grabbed a suit and joined them.

Sure, she wanted Never’s reputation to shine, but the chance to actually help people for once mattered even more to her.

As soon as Nelly reached for the protective gear, Brody stopped her. “The disaster zone’s up in the mountains. The roads are rough, and the virus is dangerous. It’s not safe for you.”

Nelly glanced at him. Even here, Brody was perfectly put together in a suit, looking like he didn’t belong at all.

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