Echoes of Unrequited Love

Chapter 39

When she heard my response, Cecilia’s expression clearly froze for a sec.

She couldn’t squeeze out a word for the longest time.

Then Hogan couldn’t stand it anymore, gave me a quick look and said to her, “Just be yourself. no need to copy anyone.”

When Hogan said “anyone,” his piercing gaze landed right on my face.

Talk about beating around the bush.

Cecilia looked at him, all surprised and fluttery eyelashes.

Guess she was touched.

I didn’t want to waste my time watching this soap opera unfold, so I said “Excuse me,” turned on my heel and left.

Turned out I actually found that dry cleaner Cecilia mentioned.

At three in the afternoon, the owner of the dry cleaners gave me a ring, saying my suit was ready.

I thought about it for a moment and dialed Darren’s number.

Soon after, the call connected, and I heard Darren ask in a hushed voice. “Xaviera, what’s up?”

pretty

my call might not have been great. I said, with a hint of apology. “You free tonight? Your

“How about after six?”

“Works for me.”

I was, carrying the suit to N University.

back in this place, filled with memories of

light brown trench coat, puffing and panting, “Been waiting long?”

I handed him the suit, asking.

“Got your head stuck in coding? It’s off–duty

I offered,

smiled contentedly. “Wouldn’t say no to that.”

who would’ve thought, Darren took me to the student cafeteria to

12:20:

“Ketchup spaghetti?”

was a bit

comfort food during my college days–cheap and filling, but

me

trying to save me

“Not really, just been craving

I didn’t say anything, he reminded me, “Finish your spaghetti, and

exercises with the discipline book, dubbed ‘Nanny Darren by the students, and I couldn’t help but laugh.

at me, puzzled, and explained, “Just remembered how you used to take care of

my forehead gently with his finger,