Landon's mind conjured images of Cornelius’ cruel words, tearing down the happiness he'd foughtso valiantly for.

Watching Landon's face pale in panic, tears welling in his eyes, Ben felt a pang of guilt. Even so, hecould only say in a low voice, "Mr. Landon, I'm sure you're very familiar with Ms. Lauren's condition."Mr. Newton never intended to marry her off, as marriage isn't suitable for her. With Mr. Newton,Mr. Jasper, and Ms. Alyssa, she has all the care she needs for life."

"Rather than being somebody's wife, Ms. Lauren is more suited to live a carefree life with theBecketts. You're not wrong, though. One could only say that this was a destined meeting, but notone meant to last.

"When you get back home, don't make things awkward with your family. Mr. Newton doesn't expectyou to fight against them. Let's just put an end to things here. At least you've got beautifulmemories to look back upon. Don't you think so?"

Ben knew how cruel his words were toward Landon, who was deeply in love with Lauren. But it wasthe most indirect way to convey that their relationship had no future.

Anguish contorted Landon's features. "Have you considered Lauren's feelings?" he rasped, voicethick with emotion.

He felt as though he had been pierced by a thousand arrows, barely holding himself together."Lauren loves me! We need each other! Why are parents still dictating our lives in this day and age?No matter what she's like, I'll still love her and fight for us, no matter the pressure!

"We love each other... Isn't that enough? Why can't we be together?"

Ben knew reasoning further would be futile. With that, he turned and retreated inside.

"What if I let go of my position as president? What if I sever ties with the Harpers? I am willing togive up everything... I just want Lauren!" Landon yelled until his voice grew hoarse.

But all he heard in response was the chilling wind.

After a long while, a familiar figure approached a drained Landon. It was Angelina.

"Mr. Landon, let me take you back," she offered. Her eyes were puffy from recent tears.

Hope flickered in his eyes. "Angelina! Lauren knows I'm here, doesn't she? All this noise... She mustknow I'm waiting for her!"

"Yes, Madam Lauren heard you,” Angelina answered with much difficulty.

"What did she say? Did she say anything to you?"

The last glimmer of hope twinkled in Landon’s eyes. His grip tightened on Angelina's shoulders."She must miss me terribly. I'm certain that she wants to come home with me. Let's bring Laurenhome right now, Angelina. I must take her with me today... No one can stop me!"

"Mr. Landon."

There was no change in Angelina's expression. She continued in a shaky voice, "Madam Laurenwon't be leaving with you."

Landon was taken aback. "What did you say?"

Tears welled up in Angelina's eyes. Slowly, she opened her hand, revealing a delicate crystal hair clip.It shimmered a quiet reflection of Lauren's gentle nature, held safe in his arms.

"Madam Lauren asked me to return this to you."

The unspoken message hung heavy in the air. The return of their love token felt like a thousanddaggers piercing Landon's heart. All hope shattered.

A gasp escaped his lips.

Suddenly, it hit him. His body lurched forward, the world spinning darkly before his eyes.

A metallic taste filled his mouth, followed by a deep cough that erupted in a spray of crimson blood."Mr. Landon!"

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