Echoes of Unrequited Love

Chapter 21

The mall where I visited was just four stops away from my studio.

If it hadn’t been for overhearing Cecilia on the phone talking about grabbing a bite before lunch break, I would’ve bet she and Hogan had bugged me or something.

But since I bumped into them, I had no choice but to say hi.

Cecilia took a quick peek at the camera bag in my hand and asked, “Are you into photography too, Xaviera?”

I replied softly, “Just window shopping.”

“That’s a coincidence.” Cecilia shot Hogan a look, then turned back to me and said, “I was worried I wouldn’t pick the right one. Could you help me decide?”

The cameras from this brand start with a four–figure price tag. pretty much what Cecilia makes in two months. She sounded so casual about it, I figured Hogan was footing the bill.

“Sorry, I haven’t had lunch yet.” I turned down her request, adding, “You should ask the saleswoman. She’s the pro.”

Cecilia’s smile froze for a sec, but she quickly played it cool, saying. “My bad, I didn’t think it through.”

I gave a small laugh and disappeared into the crowd.

I did buy the gift, but how to deliver it was another story.

I couldn’t just crash Darren’s birthday party unannounced.

like on

subtly suggested I take off

out of

a call

“Free tomorrow night?”

rude not to show when returning a favor, so I

four friends, you know them.”

mention the birthday thing, probably didn’t want

paused for a second, then said, “Send me the

he sent the location where Hilary

11:40

Chapter 21

were nothing to scoff

looking forward

the

my work, I started tidying my desk.

dare to blow out his candles without you

about to mention catching the subway when Cecilia’s office door swung open, and she looked at me curiously, “Got plans tonight,

made

this geeky guy could be such

car sped along, and we finally arrived at the

of classmates, Tina Ferber