Can't Win Me Back



Jasper's eyes widened. In a low voice, he asked, "How did you know that?"

"Dr. Gillis isn't just an exceptional surgeon. When she was in Mosgravia, she also researched mental illnesses and related medications." Justin took a casual sip of tea. "I heard from Dr. Lovelace that you suffered brain damage after taking some unverified medication while you were with Jameson.

"Since Dr. Gillis identified your symptoms, she may be able to treat you. Why not let her give it a try? It might bring you some relief from the pain."

Jasper remained expressionless and replied calmly, "Thanks, Justin, but I'll pass."

"If Dr. Gillis can help, you should go ahead with it." Javier's face brightened upon hearing this. "Dr. Gillis, I officially appoint you as Jasper's private physician! Don't worry about your salary. As long as Jasper recovers, I'll make sure you're well compensated."

Jasper furrowed his brow in protest. "Dad, I don't need a private physician. Besides, Justin needs Dr. Gillis' care. She shouldn't have to look after two patients at once."

"Jasper, you're my brother. You don't need to feel guilty about it," Justin said with a smile. "I'm already much better under Dr. Gillis' care. If you're uncomfortable with having my people around, at least allow her to be involved in your treatment.

"I'm sure her expertise will help ease your condition. Plus, you're in a critical position now. The future of Beckett Group rests on your shoulders. If something happened to you, Grandpa and Dad would be devastated."Text property © Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org.

That last statement struck a chord with Jasper.

After a brief silence, he agreed. "Alright then. Thanks for thinking of me, Justin."

Justin gave a gracious smile. "No worries."

Sheryl approached gracefully, a polite smile on her face. She extended her hand toward Jasper, who remained cold and distant. 'Mr. Jasper, I look forward to working with you."

Jasper's frown deepened. He made no move to respond.

Sheryl awkwardly left her hand outstretched, her forced smile faltering.

Reluctantly, and only to avoid embarrassing Justin, Jasper extended his hand and shook hers.

The midnight stillness of Seaview Manor was broken only by the soft glow of a single table lamp. In the dimly lit room, Justin sat on a couch, his navy blue nightshirt draped loosely over his frame. A pair of elegant silver- framed glasses perched on the bridge of his tall nose, his eyes cast downward.

His striking features, a perfect blend of symmetry and sophistication, hinted at a man of depth and reserve. Yet, his enigmatic presence concealed a hidden danger lurking beneath the surface.

Sheryl approached, carrying a tray laden with a glass of water and a small plate of pills. "Mr. Justin, it's time for your medications."

Justin didn't rush to take the pills. Instead, he continued flipping through the document on his lap. Without looking up, he said calmly, "Jasper is emotionally numb right now. It's only natural for him to ignore you. Don't let it affect you. Just follow my instructions."

Sheryl panicked as she quickly clarified, "Mr. Justin, I swear I have no personal motives regarding Jasper. Everything I'm doing is for your greater plan. Please believe me!"

"I do," Justin replied with a smile.

In one swift motion, he grabbed the pills, tilted his head back, and swallowed them. The bitterness made him wince.

"Mr. Justin, why do you have to endure this....". Sheryl said with a hint of resentment in her voice as she handed him the glass of water. "I wish Jasper could experience even a fraction of the suffering you've been through. But no matter what, it won't make up for the lifetime of pain he's caused you."

Justin gave a slight smile and put down the document. He then placed a small bag of blue pills in front of Sheryl. Now that he and Alyssa have cut ties, you have a chance to get closer to him. Learn his habits quickly and find an opportunity to slip him these."

Sheryl picked up the pills and examined them under the lamp, her voice filled with excitement. "Are these newly developed by RC? What are they called?"

Justin's eyes glinted as he replied, "They're DAC0089, also known as 'Crystal Ice."

Sheryl caught on immediately. In a hushed tone, she asked, "Will there be noticeable side effects?'

"The pills Jasper took earlier were from the earliest version of DAC0089. Those had harsher ingredients, making their effects ten times stronger, but they also had severe side effects.

"This current version is much improved. It won't be long before it's ready for the market. But once he stops taking it, the withdrawal symptoms will be obvious."

"Mr. Justin," Sheryl asked, worried, "won't Jasper realize something's wrong with his health after a while? He's surrounded by trusted people like Xavier and Mrs. Rosie. Wouldn't he immediately suspect me?"

Justin smirked and elegantly adjusted his glasses. "I never intended for you to stay hidden indefinitely. You might have the patience for that, but I don't."

Sheryl was taken aback but quickly nodded.

Justin's smile grew wider as if he found the situation fascinating. His tone carried a hint of excitement. "Besides, by the time Jasper realizes something is wrong with 'Crystal Ice,' his heart will no longer be able to control his body."