Echoes of Unrequited Love

Chapter 53

“Into it,” Darren suddenly interjected, “then I owe you one.”

After hanging up. Wallis raised an eyebrow, “Professor Yearwood seemed pretty hyped, huh?”

“He’s got a good temper.”

“I beg to differ.” Wallis pinched his chin, pondered for a couple of seconds and said, “Last time. at the party, some girl was hitting on him, and he barely said two words before he ditched her with his dessert to find you.”

hadn’t noticed that bit. “You talking about Darren?”

“Yep.” Wallis clapped me on the shoulder, “So, when you’re picking out a basket for Professor Yearwood, make sure you choose carefully.”

I was about to argue, but then I saw Hogan and Cecilia standing a few steps away.

Cecilia, with a smile beaming across her face, said, “Is Xaviera picking out some strawberries for Professor Yearwood?”

They all heard it.

Wallis responded, “Director Irwin, you’ve got some sharp ears, catching all that from way over there.”

Cecilia wasn’t annoyed, replying, “Hogan said the strawberries here are super crunchy, brought me over to try them, we just happened to pass by.”

seriously, Director Irwin? It’s all in good fun.”

sweet to Professor Yearwood, thinking of him even when you’re out having fun. Professor Yearwood

said calmly, “You’re right, Director Irwin. I should’ve invited Professor Yearwood along.”

Why not

Cecilia’s smile froze at the corners

picked up the conversation. “That’s a great idea, next time we do a team building, we

Plus–ones?

this

from?

we returned from

to see my uncle with strawberries

1/2

Chapter 53

only your aunt and m–m-my girl were here. She’s g–got crafty hands. c–could’ve made s–some strawberry jam for the k–kid.”

comforted him, “Sure

rush to his night shift, so I didn’t linger long. Before I stepped onto the subway, he hurried over and

until I was on the subway and found something extra

I saw several neatly rolled–up cash.

just fifty

uncle. [Xaviera, I have a job now. Remember to treat yourself to something

lump in my throat,