His Destructive, Toxic Love novel Chapter 531

Eliza waved goodbye to Juan at the airport, turning away with a heavy heart. She nearly bumped into someone as she turned around.

"Oh, sorry!" She quickly apologized, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. As she looked up, she found herself staring into a pair of familiar eyes. "Manuel? What are you doing here? Off on a work trip?"

"Not at all." He reached out instinctively, steadying her with a gentle touch. "I came here just to see you."

Just to see her?

Eliza blinked, her brow furrowed in confusion. "Is everything okay?"

"I heard you've been feeling a bit down lately, so I thought I'd invite you for a hike." Manuel's voice held a hint of worry, fearing she might say no. He quickly added, "I figured you might want to have a chat with Master Henry."

Eliza's mind was indeed a whirlwind of thoughts. Master Henry, a wise soul, had once offered her guidance three years ago, and his compassion and insight had left a lasting impact.

With that memory in mind, she nodded internally. "Right now?"

"Yep, we’ve got time." His lips curled into a gentle smile.

Eliza gave a small nod, "Sure, why not."

She desperately needed to clear her mind, not just lose herself in the routine of everyday life.

The mountain loomed ahead, its peaks layered beautifully. As they reached halfway, a light rain started to fall, bringing a chill to the air and a hint of melancholy to the year’s end.

Without hesitation, Manuel shrugged off his coat and draped it over Eliza’s shoulders. "We're nearly at the top. Let's keep going before the rain gets heavier."

His voice was a comforting warmth against the cold.

Eliza glanced at him, a bit reluctant. "I’m okay, really. You should wear it; winter rain can be brutal."

Manuel and Eliza shared a simple vegetarian meal prepared by the monks.

"If this rain keeps up, we might have to stay the night," Manuel remarked.

Eliza gazed out at the rain, now a misty veil, and sighed softly. "We'll see what happens."

They sat cross-legged by a tea table outside the dining hall, listening to the rain—a soothing balm for the soul.

"So, any plans for the future?" His tone was laced with genuine concern and a dash of hope.

Eliza's eyes momentarily lost focus, the rain-sprinkled breeze brushing past her ear, her thoughts scattered. "I don’t know, haven’t really thought about it."

"Well, take your time." He took a slow sip of his tea, his eyes often drifting to her slightly melancholic face. "If you don’t want to head back to Falconridge, afraid it’ll bring back memories, I can help bring your child to Oak Falls."