Love Me Back (Amelia and Daniel) novel Chapter 180

“You can’t cure depression, but you have to calm her down first.”

So Violet’s feelings needed to be soothed, but hers didn’t? Was she not worth comforting?

Daniel said, “The housekeeper won’t be gone long—just a few days. I know you love her cooking, but I promise she won’t stay over there for good.”

“A few days?” Amelia asked.

“A week.”

Amelia lowered her eyes. Bitterness welled up in her chest, spreading through her veins like cold water.

The housekeeper would be gone for a week, and yet she herself didn’t even have a week left.

She drew in a slow, silent breath, forcing herself not to spiral.

Daniel tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear, his voice soothing, almost gentle. “I know you’re upset, but it’s just a week. It’ll go by quickly. The woman coming tomorrow is great, too—she’s been with the family for years, and even Grandma says her food is delicious.”

At the mention of Grandma, Amelia’s lashes fluttered. “…How’s she doing?”

“If you miss her, you should go visit. Her illness can’t be cured, only managed. If you wait much longer, she might not even remember you.” Daniel pinched her cheek, coaxing her like a little child. “You can be mad at me all you want, but don’t let it get in the way of seeing Grandma.”

A cold wind seemed to blow right through her hollow heart.

Her feelings never mattered to him. In his eyes, this was all just childish sulking.

But none of it mattered now. She’d be gone soon, anyway.

Still, she should probably visit the old house—say goodbye to Grandma, at least.

When she stayed quiet, looking small and defeated, Daniel’s voice softened too. “Are you still upset?”

Amelia dug her fingernail sharply into her thumb, the sting forcing a smile onto her lips. “Not anymore. Why should I let myself get worked up over someone with depression?”

Daniel’s smile deepened, and he bent down to kiss her gently.

“I know you wouldn’t, sweetheart. Daniel, on the other hand—who knows about that rascal…”

Suddenly, it was as if someone had flipped a switch inside Grandma’s head; her expression shifted in an instant. “Did Daniel get bitten by a dog again? He still has all his… bits, right?”

Amelia burst out laughing.

But as she laughed, tears slipped down her cheeks.

“He’s fine, Grandma. Don’t worry. The Campbell family line isn’t going anywhere.” Amelia shifted so she was directly in front of her, running her fingers through Grandma’s silver hair. “Look at me, Grandma. I could never forget you. I hope you won’t forget me, either.”

Grandma, full of concern, reached out to dab away Amelia’s tears. “Oh, don’t cry, darling. You’re too pretty to go around with a tear-stained face. If anyone’s giving you trouble, just say the word and I’ll go sort them out myself!”

Amelia pressed Grandma’s wrinkled hand to her cheek, leaning in for comfort.

“Grandma, I came to say goodbye this time.”

With Grandma so lost in her own haze, Amelia could finally say what had been weighing on her heart. “I’m going somewhere far away—a place no one can find.”