Chapter 19

Just like always, Connor set down the things in his hands and pulled Holly into a warm hug. Then, he planted a kiss on her lips. Holly responded just as affectionately. The two of them even drank the same glass of fruity soda. "Why are you two so lovey-dovey every single day?" Ella, who was carrying her backpack, plopped into her usual seat as she rested her chin on her cupped hands with a grin. "Then, you should go find yourself a boyfriend, too," a nearby customer teased her with a laugh. "I already have one! His name is Allen, and he's eight years old. He gave me a flower plushie on Children's Day!" Ella declared seriously, hands on her hips. Everyone in the shop burst into laughter at her adorable response. Jasper stood awkwardly to the side, his stomach throbbing in pain again. He pulled out a handkerchief and held it to his mouth, coughing up so much blood that it soaked his palm. It was such a beautiful scene. Yet, he was just an outsider there, standing in a corner while