They Want Me Back When It's Too Late (Jessica and Brian) novel Chapter 260

At the mention of Jessica’s old books, Jacob’s eyes lit up. Clearly excited, he didn’t bounce around like he used to, though instead, he smiled podiras and thanked them. “Thanks, Grandpa and Grandma.”

Dereck and Stella felt a mix of sorrow and pride seeing how quickly Jacob had matured.

They thought, ‘No child should have to grow up this way!

“You’re welcome, Jake. Just happy you like them,” Dereck said, ruffling his hair before picking up the textbook to help with his lessons.

Normally fidgety, Jacob listened attentively for over half an hour without a word of complaint. When Dereck

Stella could only sigh at the change.

As soon as they left the hospital, they headed straight to Jessica’s apartment.

stopped, he even asked to keep going

“Mom, you’re here. Should I take you out for dinner tonight?” Jessica asked guiltily, walking in from work to find her mother tidying up.

“No need, Jessi. I actually came to talk to you about Jake,” Stella said, shaking her head and guiding her daughter to the sofa.

Jessica’s hand trembled slightly as she poured water. “What about him? Didn’t you say he was improving?” She tried to keep her voice calm.

“Physically he’s better, but now he’s having emotional struggles,” Stella said, studying her daughter’s face.

She saw the flash of worry in Jessica’s eyes and sighed again.

Jessica’s grip on the glass tightened. “How could he suddenly have emotional issues? Wasn’t he okay before?”

‘What the hell is Brian doing?‘ she seethed internally. ‘I left Jake with him for such a short time, and now Jake’s not only in the hospital but also dealing with mental stress.‘

She mentally added another mark against Brian.

Stella said, “Why wouldn’t he? Jessi, you have no idea how quiet and serious Jake has become. When your dad and I visit, he’s either studying or just sitting there lost in thought.

“He doesn’t touch toys or play games anymore. He’s like a little adult–no trace of the playful kid he used to be.”

Stella sighed deeply, especially at the sight of her daughter’s thinly veiled worry.

‘Why does every one of them have to go through this?‘ she thought with a heavy heart.

“Jessi, sometimes I wonder if Jake is depressed. Why not take some time to visit him and talk to him?” Stella urged.

She feared that if this went on, half the family would end up in therapy, and what kind of life would that be?

To her surprise, Jessica set down her glass and said sharply, “What’s the point? Mom, don’t baby him. It’s good that he’s maturing. It means he’s finally learning responsibility. Nothing to worry about,”

Stella eyed her daughter’s white–knuckled grip on the glass, her sadness deepening. “Jessi, don’t say that. Jake is only six. He’s still a kid. Why rush him to grow up?”

“Six is old enough to start acting grown–up. Please, Mom, let’s drop it,” Jessica said, closing the conversation.

She’d made up her mind to stay far from Brian and Jacob. Getting involved now would ruin everything she’d distanced herself from.

Jessica rested a hand on her stomach, repeating silently that she couldn’t second–guess her choice. ‘I won’t regret this,‘ she thought.

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