?<strong>Chapter 942:</strong>


    Hyde met Mabel’s gaze, his expression unreadable for a moment before he managed a weak smile. “How could you tell? Don’t worry, I’m fine,” he assured her, though his grip on the chocte tightened, betraying his true feelings.


    “Thank you, Mabel,” he murmured, the corners of his mouth lifting in a sad, wistful smile.


    Seeing him so guarded, Mabel’s concern deepened. She reached out, sping his hand firmly. “I’m more than just your girlfriend; I’m your partner. Whatever’s weighing on you, you don’t have to carry it alone,” she insisted, her voice filled with urgency.


    A flicker of warmth touched Hyde’s eyes, but it vanished as quickly as it appeared. His smile twisted slightly. “Forget it. I’ll be better after tonight. Just don’t worry about me. Tomorrow, I’ll be the man you need me to be—your rock.”


    Mabel shook her head, her reply quick and sincere. “I don’t need you to be my rock or any version of yourself you think I want. I love you, all of you, ws included. So please, just talk to me. Whatever it is, we’ll face it together.”


    The cold wind swept through, making the night even chillier. Hyde ran his tongue over his upper lip, a sly look in his eyes, though Mabel couldn’t see it. “You really don’t need to go out of your way for me,” he said smoothly. “As my girlfriend, I just want you to be happy. That’s all I need—just having you by my side.”


    Mabel shook her head stubbornly. “No way! I’m not just a friend; I’m your girlfriend. If something involves you, I’m the one who should be helping.”


    Feeling that Hyde was being too distant, she brushed past him and stepped into his house.


    The heating was on, but the floor felt cold against her bare feet. Mabel nced around, taking in the space. His housecked warmth, as if it didn’t belong to anyone. Hyde closed the door behind them, silently watching her. The prey had walked right into his trap, and he couldn’t help but feel pleased. He knew he wouldn’t be bored for a while.


    After scanning the room to ensure there were no traces of other women, Mabel turned toward Hyde, who stood in the shadows. “Why is your ce so empty?” she asked, her tone tinged with concern. “Tomorrow, we’re going shopping. Even if you live alone, you should take better care of yourself.”


    Hyde’s response came quickly. “Why should I?”


    “Because you’re not alone anymore,” Mabel said confidently. “You’ve got me.”


    The words had barely left her lips when she realized themitment she was making. She sighed, softening. “Forget it. I’ll just take care of you. I’ll being by more often.”


    Hyde’s eyes flickered, revealing a hint of reluctance. He clearly wasn’t thrilled with the idea.


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