40

Jerald and Ixora remained locked in that intimate embrace for what seemed like an eternity. His strong arms enveloped her, and she reciprocated with gentle pats on his arms, as if soothing the invisible wounds within him. His grip on her tightened as he began to recount his story.

"Ixora," he began, his voice tinged with emotions, "I have a brother. We grew up with our wonderful parents, Camila and William. Everyone, especially our mother, used to tease us about being a team, always sticking together and ganging up on them. And honestly, they were right. My twin and I were inseparable."

Ixora felt a mix of relief and curiosity as he finally started sharing his past. Yet, she remained puzzled about why Cherry had visited, then left in such haste. "But why did my twin come here?" she inquired, her voice laced with concern.

Jerald's response was shrouded in silence for a moment. Then, he spoke, "She came to inquire about my twin, and I revealed his name."

Ixora, though anxious, held her