In the midst of Georgia's emotional turmoil, Jack found himself at a loss. He wasn't known for being particularly skilled in comforting people, and the weight of the situation seemed to amplify his helplessness. Yet, in that critical moment, he decided to bridge the gap between them with a simple, heartfelt gesture.
"Don't cry," he murmured, his voice soft but tinged with a hint of vulnerability.
However, these two seemingly straightforward words didn't have the soothing effect he intended. Instead of halting her tears, they seemed to intensify Georgia's emotional release. Her sobs grew louder, the pain she had been holding in finally finding an outlet.
Jack's dilemma deepened as he watched her cry. He wanted to console her, to make things right, but he wasn't sure how. After a moment of contemplation, he reached out and gently enveloped her in his arms. It was an instinctual response, an attempt to shield her from the emotional storm that raged within her.
Georgia was momentarily stunned by this unexpected embrace. Her head tilted back, and she found herself gazing into Jack's eyes. To her astonishment, she noticed that his shirt bore the unmistakable signs of her tears. It was a poignant realization, and a faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips.
As Jack's hand tenderly stroked her back, he reiterated his promise, "I won't leave you next time."
Georgia met his gaze, searching for sincerity in his eyes. "Really?" she inquired, her voice laced with hope.
Jack bowed his head, his expression unwavering, and nodded in confirmation.
For Georgia, this promise held profound significance. She had rarely received such heartfelt assurances from a man before, and in that moment, a sense of relief washed over her. It was a promise she desperately wanted to believe in.
Just as the emotional tension between them seemed to ease, Jack's phone suddenly rang, disrupting the intimate atmosphere that had begun to form. He retrieved his phone from his pocket and glanced at the caller ID.
"Hello? Grandma," he answered, taken aback by the unexpected call.
The voice on the other end, unmistakably that of an elderly woman, carried a hint of displeasure. "You rascal! I heard that Georgia is unwell. Is that true?"
Jack was caught off guard by the old lady's knowledge of Georgia's condition. How could she possibly know?
Then it dawned on him that Dr. Luo, who had visited the previous night, might have divulged the information.
"It rained yesterday, and she caught a cold. Her fever has subsided now. Please don't worry," Jack reassured her.
The old lady's anger was palpable as she retorted, "Don't worry? Why didn't you inform me earlier? If anything happens to my precious granddaughter-in-law, I'll never forgive you!"
Jack couldn't help but smile at the old lady's fierce protectiveness of Georgia. It was heartwarming to witness.
"I understand," he replied, a touch of amusement in his voice.
The old lady continued, her tone softening, "If you have some free time this afternoon, come home and visit Georgia."
After a brief pause, Jack agreed, "Of course, we'll come over this afternoon."
Ending the call, he turned to Georgia and asked, "Grandma wants us to visit this afternoon. Would you like to go?"
Georgia nodded without hesitation. "Yes," she replied. The old lady's affectionate gestures had touched her deeply, and she saw no reason to decline the invitation.
After a simple lunch, they made their way back to the old house in Jack's car. As they arrived at the gate, Georgia stepped out of the vehicle and saw the old lady, supported by a servant, waving eagerly to greet them.
Her heart warmed at the sight, and she hurriedly approached the elderly woman.
Seeing Georgia, the old lady took her hand and inquired with genuine concern, "How are you feeling now? Are you better?"
Georgia couldn't help but smile at the old lady's affectionate demeanor. "The fever has subsided. I just need to take my medication as prescribed," she replied gratefully.
The old lady nodded with satisfaction and led her into the living room. Jack followed behind, his demeanor softening as he observed the genuine bond between Georgia and his beloved grandmother.
"Georgia," the old lady began, "I've arranged for some tonics, such as bird's nest, that are suitable for you. When you return home, have Rong prepare them for you. I want you to regain your strength."