Chapter 21

Stanley no longer held back like in his past life. His pursuit of Tessa was passionate, direct, and sometimes clumsily awkward. He remembered all her preferences, surprising her with gifts every day. He also turned down every unnecessary engagement to be with her, caring for her with meticulous attention. Tessa was shocked and helpless at first, but gradually melted under the sincerity and intensity of his affection. Alexis was right there beside them, giving her all-out support. "Why are you here again today?" Tessa asked, blushing as she looked at Stanley standing below the dorm. "Didn't you say you had an important meeting today?" "I canceled it," Stanley said casually as he took her bag. "I wanted to see you, so I came." Her heart raced. From the first time they met, he had shown her an unusual fervor, but strangely, she didn't feel annoyed. Instead, there was an inexplicable sense of familiarity. After dinner, Stanley took her to the hospital. "What's with the sudden check-