Chapter 1678

Avery hadn't planned on staying the night. She had only intended to have dinner with Mason, make sure he took his medicine, and then head home. But seeing his worsening condition, she couldn't bring herself to leave. The thought of leaving him alone in this state tugged at her heart. Every time she was with Mason, it struck her how often he seemed to be on his own. He was always working, always pushing forward, as if he had no one else in his life. It almost made him seem like an orphan, someone who needed care—her care. What Avery didn't realize was just how calculated Mason could be. On the phone, Juliana's usual gentle tone shifted into frustration as she heard Avery's excuse. "You're traveling for work again when you're not feeling well? What's wrong with this company of yours? Can't they manage without you for a single day?" Avery could hear the irritation in Juliana's voice, which was rather rare. "How big is this company anyway? Can't they find anyone else to send? A