Echoes of Unrequited Love

Chapter 75

He was making perfect sense, lists clenched and giving Hogan the stink eye,

Suddenly, the vibe got super tense.

Seeing this, Cecilia shot me a quilty look and said, “Sorry. Xaviera, we weren’t trying to step on your toes or anything. Hogan just wanted me to give it a whirl. If you’re really into it, I’ll back

off.”

Her voice trailed off and her eyes started to well up.

Meanwhile, Hilary was just standing there the whole time, not saying a peep.

My ankle was throbbing and I winced, telling Darren. “This number’s a bit snug around the waist, not exactly the epitome of comfort.”

I was being straight up, but also waving a white flag.

Darren blinked, took a beat, then suggested, “Let’s browse around some more.”

The drama ended with our compromise.

As we were leaving the store. I overheard Cecilia playfully scolding. “I’ve got plenty of clothes, Hogan. No need to splash out, pick something for Mrs. Hillary.”

head screwed

her sweet. After that hot mess, none of us were in the mood to keep shopping. Darren saw Jason loaded down with bags and

After hesitating for a few seconds, he asked, “Xaviera, you still in touch with the Zade family?”

he recognized

only met

didn’t remember him at

I said, “Not much interaction.”

It was clear he wasn’t

smile and said, “Don’t worry, I know

he was leaving, I could see the unease he couldn’t quite hide in his eyes.

felt like a real jerk.

unexpectedly pulled up in front

09:55

Chapter 25

pharmacy.

five minutes”

back with some medicinal

he said. “Rub this

ankle, his eyes full of

hurt; I’d been toughing it out so my uncle wouldn’t

was wearing casual pants that covered