Chapter 1417

James spoke softly, his voice gentle but somehow fierce. Esther stopped crying when she heard him. Her eyes snapped wide open. Seeing this, James quickly pulled her into a hug. "Do you still want me to leave you alone?" Esther huffed and struggled to break free, but James held her tight. "I don't know what you mean. I'm just going home," she replied. "You can't send me away, no matter what. What if something bad happens when I'm not there to help?" James's voice was full of concern but without any blame. He was genuinely worried about her safety. Esther calmed down and simply said, "Okay." James didn't press further. He walked her to the door of her house and let go. "Alright, go on home. I'll watch until you're inside." Esther took off the coat he'd lent her and tried to give it back. "Thanks for the coat." But James didn't take it. He looked at her seriously. "Keep it." Esther was puzzled until he added, "Help me wash it." So, he wanted her to wash the coat. Esther rolled