Chapter 1023

She was berating herself inwardly, feeling small and lost. James sensed her distress and softened his tone, urging her, "Don't come to places like this alone anymore." Esther found his tone oddly familiar, reminiscent of the James she used to know. Why was he suddenly being so gentle? In that moment, something changed for Esther. It felt like they were transported back to a time when they were together, when James still loved her. "Don't tell me what to do," she retorted, pushing him away as she attempted to rise. But her footing faltered, and she nearly fell if James hadn't caught her in time. "Don't touch me, James. We're nothing to each other now. I don't need your kindness. I hate you. I hate you with every fiber of my being…" Esther squatted on the floor and burst out crying. Her cries were so loud that James felt bad. He awkwardly patted her head. "Alright, stop crying." "Do you even realize how awful your actions were? Do you think I'm some kind of fool? Who else wo