Echoes of Unrequited Love

Chapter 19

I was zoning out staring at Hogan’s profile pic.

Honestly, I was planning to give this friend request a pass.

But of course, Hogan had to be a big–shot Investor.

If he just wanted to talk shop and I got all petty now, that would look bad on me.

After much thought, I accepted the friend request.

And within moments, a transfer notification popped up unexpectedly.

Like, what’s up with this investor playing Santa late at night?

I didn’t say much, just shot over a question mark.

Then a voice message popped up.

“Compensation.”

Suddenly, that steamy kiss from last night flashed through my mind, and everything clicked.

That investment banker sure knew how to play the generosity card.

I wasn’t shy; I hit accept on that payment.

about having too much

if I didn’t take it, Hogan would probably be restless.

thought about saying thanks, but

between us, even one extra word seemed

ended up saying

Omeone

day, business as usual at the office, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that from the tech department kept sneaking glances my way, like they were probing for something. It left a sour taste in my

“Xaviera, can I take a half–day

a sigh

just wanted

Cecilia added, “Hogan’s mom invited me for tea, and I just don’t know how to say no.”

down, all

didn’t need to spill the beans to me, but I was cool about it, “No

Chapter Ty

to call it a day.”

her lashes fluttering, “You’re so understanding,

have the heart to tell her I was just playing

I’d already finished the work she had on her

square, but it wasn’t long before I got a call

done me dirty, haven’t you? And I trusted

tone, paired with her booming voice, sounded like fury was about

asked, “What’s going on?”

you tell me Cecilia was working at your studio?” Hilary was fuming. “Are you and Hogan playing me for a fool?”

managed to

I could hear Cecilia’s