Chapter 22
288 Vouchers
After Antonio’s wedding wrapped up, Bryce sent Grace a text: “Meet me on the field behind the hill to catch some stars.”
Wintervale was an ancient town with bright moonlight and stunning views.
This particular field was super special to Grace. It was where her parents‘ funeral took place.
It was also where Antonio had asked her if she wanted to start
fresh with him.
She had spent countless hours here, hanging out with her childhood friends.
This field held all her cherished childhood memories.
“Love this place, Grace?”
Bryce, being the typical guy, had spent his time in Wintervale playing basketball with his friends and didn’t have a deep connection to the place.
Grace nodded, plopping down on the grass and gazing up at the stars.
She had heard somewhere that people who passed away turn into stars in the sky, keeping an eye on those left behind.
Ever since her parents had passed, Grace found comfort in stargazing here, like they were still with her.
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“Missing your folks?” Bryce asked, breaking the silence.
Grace nodded. “Yeah.”
Bryce gave her a warm smile and wrapped his arms around her. They leaned on each other, lost in the beauty of the night sky. Grace was sensitive and vulnerable.
“Can I stargaze with you in the future? Will you grant me your permission, Grace?” Bryce asked, grinning as he adjusted her collar.
Grace just raised an eyebrow and chuckled.
“The sky’s not mine,” she said. “You’re free to gaze at it anytime you like.”
It was like a signal. Bryce’s gaze softened as he kissed her.
At midnight, Barrett knocked on Grace’s door.
“Grandpa, why aren’t you asleep yet?”
Grace quickly ushered Barrett in and helped him sit on the bed.
“Grace, you’re almost 24 this year, right?” asked Barrett.
Grace got what Barrett meant and nodded.
“It’s been 13 years, so it wouldn’t be strange if you had some feelings. Grace, tell me what you’re thinking,” added Barrett.
Grace explained everything from her past to Barrett, and then said seriously, “Grandpa, that’s all in the past. I love Bryce now.”
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Chapter 22
288 Vouchers
Barrett nodded. “That’s good to hear. Antonio is married and about to have a child. It’s better to let go sooner. You and Bryce should hurry up too.”
After seeing Barrett back to his room, Grace noticed Antonio still out in the courtyard, just standing there. She was surprised. “Uncle Antonio, why are you still up?”
Hearing Grace’s voice, Antonio turned around. He looked ten years older, exhaustion on his face.
“Is this really the same Uncle Antonio I know? The one who is always so lively and spirited?” Grace thought, feeling like she was looking at a stranger. She stood there, waiting for Antonio to speak up.
Antonio looked at her stubborn face and let out a bitter smile. “You’re still the same, Grace. Do you really have feelings for Bryce? Or is it just what Dad wants, or are you trying to make me back off completely?”
He was the one who had been keeping her at a distance, but he just couldn’t accept it. “Why does Bryce get to be with her? Just because he’s not a Kaufman?” Antonio pondered.
“Uncle Antonio.” Grace approached him softly, stood on her tiptoes, and gently touched his head, just like he had done to her when she was a kid.
“I’m really into Mr. Huffman, but it’s romantic love, not family ties. I was naive before and I’m sorry for the trouble. Now, you should focus on taking care of Zelma and your kid. That’s your job as a husband and father.”
Antonio pulled back his hand, wincing, his eyes dark and empty.
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