What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger novel Chapter 104

"Dad, why won't you let me break it off? Are you forcing me to marry someone I don't love?"

Uncle Johnson glared at his son. "Have you lost your mind? You brought Viola home yourself, declaring she was the woman you wanted to spend your life with. You told Calista, to her face, that you were marrying Viola and she should abandon any illusions about you. Everything's arranged—everyone knows about the wedding. Would you have me lose face? Where's my reputation in all this?"

Ken stood like a statue, his heart as bitter as ash. Finally, he spoke softly. "Dad, can you find out exactly where Calista is?"

Uncle Johnson lit a cigarette in frustration. "The research bases are classified, Ken. Even if I knew, I couldn't tell you." He exhaled heavily. "Let it go. She's made her choice—why keep tormenting her?"

After his father left, Ken stood alone in Calista's old room, memories washing over him.

Through his tears, he saw her face clearly in his mind:

"Ken, it's thundering—I'm scared. Will you stay with me?"

"Ken, my birthday wish is to be with you forever."

"Ken, I like you..."

A thunderclap jolted him back to reality. He stood in the empty room, the truth finally sinking in.

She didn't want him anymore.

"Ian, I need a favor. Can you find the approximate location of the satellite research base?" He paused. "I know it's against protocol. I just need to know which city..." His voice cracked. "Please. I'm begging you..."

Meanwhile, Calista's journey continued through the next evening. When they finally reached the base, she stepped out into dazzling sunlight.

"Look—the snow-capped mountains!"

Calista looked up and lost her breath. Though she'd grown up with snow, she'd never seen anything like this. The peaks wore their snow like ethereal mist, breathtakingly beautiful.

Lost in wonder, she didn't watch her step and twisted her ankle.