Dreadful past

"No," Jasper replied instantly. "I just can't do it."

"Why?"

Jasper thought for a while and then turned to face her. "I can't be selfish," he said sternly. "You're still recovering, and we have our entire lives ahead of us. Let's focus on your recovery first, okay?"

Britney's disappointment had not vanished completely. Still, his consideration brought a smile back to her face. He cared about her well-being, which she found comforting. This assurance uplifted her spirits.

"Then I'll make sure to recover quickly," she chirped optimistically.

Jasper picked up the file and said, "It's getting late. You should rest now."

He escorted her into the room and helped her to her bed.

Britney coquettishly smiled, wrapping her arms around his neck. "I won't ask you to stay here because I know you won't agree. I won't force you to do anything. But promise me that you will call me," she entreated, her eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief.