Chapter 570

Phoebe chuckled softly at Jack's words. "Thank you for the praise."

Their conversation, as always, seemed to hit a wall. Her calm, detached demeanor left Jack struggling to find the right words.

He couldn't just force some meaningless small talk—someone as sharp as Phoebe would see right through him, just like when she'd uncovered his original excuse for borrowing the book.

The silence stretched awkwardly. Finally, Jack said casually, "Well, goodbye then. Have a smooth journey. Maybe we can grab a meal when you're back."

Deep down, he hoped Phoebe would ask him to stay a little longer. However, she merely nodded.

A pang of disappointment struck him. Did he really mean nothing to her?

Jack sighed and turned to leave. Since Phoebe showed no intention of continuing their conversation, it would be awkward to insist on staying.

"Jack, wait."

Her voice stopped him mid-step. Jack turned back to find Phoebe gazing at him, her eyes bright.

She asked, "Do you have time right now?"

Joy surged in his chest, though he kept his expression neutral. "What's up?"

She hesitated, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "We haven't talked much since the semester started. Would you walk with me around campus? Like we used to in freshman year?"

Jack's heart leapt, but his tone remained calm. "Sure."

Alnewgo University's campus was picturesque-modern buildings framed by lush greenery. Strolling through this scenery with a beautiful girl by his side was practically every college guy's dream.

Yet Jack knew with perfect clarity—this remarkable woman was never his to keep, and tomorrow she would cross oceans to distant shores.

Years might pass before their paths crossed again, if ever. It wouldn't be surprising if she put down roots in Vexburg permanently-combined bachelor's- master's-doctorate programs made such outcomes common.

The allure of developed nations-their promising futures and superior social benefits—drew many exceptional talents to stay indefinitely.

Without deep patriotic conviction, few chose to return.

Tonight might well be their final walk together. So, Jack allowed himself to look at Phoebe a moment longer.

Phoebe noticed his gaze. A faint blush colored her cheeks as she asked softly, "Is there something on my face?"

Jack replied, "No. You'll be going abroad soon, and I might never see this beautiful face again. So, I couldn't help stealing a few extra glances."

This might be his last chance to speak so freely.

Phoebe's face warmed further. She shot him a glare but didn't respond to his teasing.

Suddenly, Phoebe broke the silence.

"Jack, can I ask you something?"

When he nodded, she glanced around to ensure no one was nearby before feigning nonchalance. Read complete version only at Fɪnd-Novel.net

"Did you really break up with Bella? Are you two still in contact?"

Jack stared at her in surprise. He had always seen Phoebe as someone aloof and untouchable.

Never did he imagine she would care about such trivial gossip-about who had broken up with whom and who was dating whom.