Turning Back Time to Save You

Gavin and Allison had already prepared a table full of food. Seeing me return, Allison happily took my hand.

"Julian, you're back from getting your marriage certificate so soon! Why didn't Sophia come back with you?"

"She had something urgent at the company to take care of."

Allison chided, "That daughter of mine! Today's such an important day. She should know when to set work aside."

Gavin smiled. "It's good that she's dedicated to her career. Besides, they're married now—we can have a family dinner anytime."

Allison continued to express her dissatisfaction with gentle grumbles. I felt a lump in my throat as I witnessed this warm scene before me.

"Gavin, Allison, Sophia and I didn't get our marriage certificate. I've arranged my study abroad documents, and I'm planning to leave the country in a few days."

Allison was immediately shocked.

"What do you mean, you didn't get married? Did Sophia mistreat you? That girl is just tough on the outside. She actually cares deeply about everything concerning you and truly loves you in her heart.

"Besides, you taught yourself psychology and stayed by her side day and night to provide emotional support. We all saw your genuine feelings for her. You love each other, so of course you should be together!

"And you know that Ethan isn't a good person. We can't let him succeed."

Gavin quickly added, "Sophia's just being stubborn. Once you insist on marrying her, she'll surely soften."

These words were all too familiar; they had said the same things before. Unfortunately, forcing that outcome had made everyone regretful in the end.

I took Allison's hands and said softly, "Please don't get upset. Let me explain. Although I hate to admit it, you just can't force love.

"Sophia has never really had feelings for me.

"Last night, I had a dream where Sophia and I were married, but she refused to see me. She worked herself sick at the company every day, even developing stomach problems.

"She wouldn't eat the food I made for her and wouldn't let me take care of her when she was ill. She told me that the pain I brought her outweighed any happiness, and she died at the age of 30 under a truck trying to save me."

As I said this, my heart ached so much I could barely breathe.

Allison was stunned. "B-b-but that was just a dream, Julian. Sophia wouldn't do that."

I sniffled and forced a smile.

"Gavin, Allison, dreams are premonitions. I want her to be free from marrying me. We don't need to be husband and wife, but I want her to live a long, healthy life.

"Everything points to this conclusion. Sophia loves music, not business, and she hates following a path chosen for her. If her hand hadn't been injured back then, she wouldn't have taken this route.

"It's the same now. If it weren't for your arrangement, she wouldn't be forced to marry me.

"The root of all this is me. It's all my fault, and I don't want to keep making the same mistake.

"My study abroad program is already arranged. I'll always remember your kindness, and I'll take care of you both in the future!"

Allison secretly wiped away a tear. "You're a good man, Julian. Sophia doesn't know how fortunate she would have been to marry you."

I hugged them with misty eyes and smiled.

"It's alright. If I can't be your son-in-law, I can still be like a son to you. In the future, I'll still look after you both."

Gavin and Allison finally smiled through their tears and ultimately agreed with my decision.

I remembered the second wish in Sophia's diary. That should count as fulfilling it, right?

The time machine would only allow me to stay here for thirty-six hours. Now, there was one last wish to fulfill.

I wondered if it would go just as smoothly.

As night approached, I went to the observatory alone.

This was the best spot to view the meteor shower. I leaned on the railing, feeling a faint sense of anticipation.

After waiting for who knows how long, the door behind me suddenly opened. I turned around with hopeful eyes.