This phenomenon reflects a certain blind self-confidence that some men possess. Perhaps it stems from too many viewings of unrealistic Hong Kong and Hollywood romance films, leading them to believe that, regardless of how ordinary they might be, they are destined to be someone’s true love. They envision themselves soaring on colorful auspicious clouds, savoring delicacies, but instead find themselves reduced to eating sour white water noodles.


    It was this very mindset that inspired him to devise a n to save Matilda.


    However, his notion of “saving” Matilda had little to do with being by her side; rather, it meant encouraging her to move on from Hank and to rekindle her affection for him by showcasing his male charm.


    The question of whether he intended to divorce Ma Lan was a separate matter altogether.


    Meanwhile, Jacob had finallypleted a tedious PowerPoint presentation. A room filled with retired seniors had also awakened from their stupor, and everyone began to gather their belongings. Some were headed to other ssrooms for additional courses, while others were wrapping up their activities for the day, nning to go home, purchase groceries, and cook.<h3 style="background-color:DodgerBlue">


    Matilda had just scheduled a time with Hank via WeChat to coborate on a guest list. After enjoying coffee with Charlie Wade, Hank drove back to the University for the Elderly to pick her up, prompting her to pack her things and get ready to leave.


    As Jacob observed Matilda packing her belongings and exiting through the back door, he hurried after her and called out, “Matilda!”


    Matilda turned around, greeted Jacob with a smile, and asked, “Jacob, how are you?”


    Jacob hesitated briefly before mustering the courage to say, “I was wondering if you’re free this evening. I’d love to treat you to dinner.”


    He quickly employed what he considered the “Thirty-six Stratagems of Scumbags.” With a hint of nostalgia, he suggested, “What do you think about visiting the food stalls in the back alley near our school? You remember how we used to go there. Although it’s not the same one anymore, the vors in that area have remained authentic over the years.”


    If Matilda still harbored feelings for Jacob, his nostalgia card might have had a significant impact. However, at this moment, Matilda had already resolved to move forward, rendering Jacob’s words emotionally ineffective. She smiled apologetically and replied, “I’m sorry, Jacob, but Hank is waiting for me downstairs. We have some things to take care of. Let’s definitely n to have dinner another time.”


    Jacob never anticipated that his nostalgia card would backfire.


    His original intention was to invite Matilda to eat nearby, with hopes of using that opportunity to revisit their old haunts and perhaps rekindle their past romance.


    After all, revisiting familiar ces is often the best way to reignite old mes.


    However, he was taken aback by Matilda’s unchanging expression. There was no sign of shyness, nervousness, or even a hint of panic. She simply rejected his invitation in a polite manner, as one would turn down an ordinary friend.


    Upon hearing that Hank was waiting for Matilda, Jacob felt a wave of despair wash over him. The thought of her affectionately calling Hank by name in front of him only deepened his unhappiness.


    Thus, he resorted to self-deprecating humor, saying, “Well, it seems Hank really is a good man. Now that you’re with him, I can’t even reminisce about our old times.”


    The contrast between Matilda and Jacob was stark. Jacob was filled with countless thoughts, half of which he dared not express, and the majority he simply chose to keep to himself. The few thoughts he did share were indirect and convoluted.


    Perhaps he hadn’t always been this way, but the moment he resolved to suppress his feelings and adopt a sullen demeanor, it was as if a gate had closed within him, barricading his thoughts and emotions.<fn6831> Read full story at FindN()vel</fn6831>


    Matilda, on the other hand, was straightforward and unafraid to express her feelings. Having lived in the West for many years, shecked the subtlety often found in Eastern cultures. She voiced her desires candidly and acted on them without reservation.


    Consequently, noticing Jacob’s apparent disappointment at her rejection, she openly stated, “I’m truly sorry, Jacob, but Hank and I are in the process of nning our wedding. He asked me toe back so we can finalize the guest list together. After that, we need to start writing invitations, so today really won’t work. Let’s definitely try for another day!”


    Jacob was left utterly stunned by the mention of “wedding.” A chill ran down his spine, and he felt weak and numb, as if all the strength had drained from his body. His mouth turned bitter, and he struggled to process what Matilda had just said.


    He found himself lost in disbelief, unable to absorb the reality that the woman he had loved for thirty years was about to marry someone else!


    Without waiting for him to collect his thoughts, Matilda, realizing she had already spent too much time, said, “Jacob, I really need to go now. Let’s catch upter. Goodbye!”


    With that, she hurriedly turned and made her way downstairs, leaving Jacob standing there in a dejected stupor.


    In that moment, Jacob’s mind was a nk te, and he stood frozen, unresponsive.


    A student happened to pass by and curiously inquired, “Vice President, why are you standing here?”


    Upon noticing Jacob’s expression, the student eximed, “Vice President, are you… are you crying? Is everything okay?!”