Echoes of Unrequited Love

Chapter 194

Sibyl’s sense of urgency and anticipation were practically oozing out of those street–smart eyes of hers.

So much so that she didn’t even realize how her simple question came across as downright Intrusive and caused Hogan to pause for a beat.

Well, she snagged such a catch of a son–in–law, whom any mother–in–law would bend over backwards to keep around; besides, Hogan’s doting on Cecilia was off the charts compared to your average dude.

The air went stiff for a few seconds, with nobody piping up, until Cecilia, ever the quick thinker. smoothly chimed in, “Mom, Hogan’s been swamped these past days. We’re not in a big rush.”

With Cecilia’s nudge, Sibyl finally caught on to her faux pas and quickly backtracked, “Sorry about that. Mr. Zade. My bad for not considering your schedule. I’m flexible, so it’s really down to whenever you’re free.”

Sibyl called Hogan Mr. Zade, while she called Hilary Mrs. Hilary Zade – didn’t see that one coming.

“Mom, Hogan will sort it out,” Cecilia cooed, clinging to Hogan’s arm, “He’s got it all under control. We don’t have to worry.”

The question hung in the air by Hogan’s ear. He glanced down at Cecilia and said coolly. “Let’s do tomorrow afternoon. I’ll have the driver pick you up.”

like that, Hogan agreed.

was he actually keen on making this shindig

up. “Is Xaviera free tomorrow afternoon? Auntie was just bending my ear today about how she hasn’t seen you in ages. If you’re up for it, join us.”

was soft, and her smile was gentle, but for some reason, I sensed a challenge in her words.

Pinecrest Hollow, it seemed like

me up. Feeling slightly irked, I made an

a no–fuss brush–off, but Cecilia had to dig

prying tone, and as I

rang.

Wallis

saw my chance, I glanced at Sibyl and said, “I’ll have to take a rain check

response and bolted out the door.

gulped the cold air, and my insides felt like

braced myself against the car door, figuring that the queasiness was probably from inhaling