Echoes of Unrequited Love

Chapter 67

Sure, throwing in a bit extra was no biggie.

The moment the words left my mouth, a notification for a bank transfer popped up on my phone.

Hogan had sent another 2 grand my way.

“Mr. Zade, you are too kind. If you need anything in the future.”

“Ms. March, you could try dipping your toes into the showbiz.” Hogan cut me off, “Playing the contrast card, you nail it every time.

My voice got stuck in my throat.

I pride myself on my acting chops, but how did Hogan catch on?

“Ms. March, you intentionally slipped in ginger slices, so why didn’t you switch to a willow blade when slicing the carp?”

The willow blade was my go–to technique for slicing fish.

But I hadn’t realized Hogan would remember that.

The next day at work, Cecilia brought me breakfast on purpose and gushed, “Xaviera, you really know how to handle things. Mrs. Hilary invited me to go to a floral salon tonight, I’m so thrilled.” Predictable.

I figured Hogan forking over 2 grand so easily had to be connected to this too.

favorite

her lightbulb moment and gratefully said,

when you’re on the same page, past and present beaus can

it, admitting, “Maybe I’m just small–minded,

‘A good name is better than a good face,

tight and said, “Xaviera, stop working your butt off, go on a date or something, even a pity date would do.”

about being

before

From Darren.

Chapter 67

tonight? There’s this cool new mystery

really into it, but thinking of

think I was chucking

asked Darren. [What

immediately sent a voice message, (Eight tonight, I’ll pick you up.]

stark

nearly bare Branches outside the

Wallis dragged me toward the elevator, insisting on grabbing a drink with me, but I frantically stopped her, “Sorry, I’ve got

“Who

nodded, clearly feeling her sigh of relief, “Good on you, Xaviera.

dropped when a gasp

Cecilia covering her mouth, awkwardly