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,

keen on

weird flutter ran through my chest, and as I was about to look away. Cecilia piped 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

her smile was gentle, but for some reason, I sensed a challenge in

Hollow, it seemed like Cecilia’s vibe

influence to show me up.

was just a no–fuss brush–off, but Cecilia had to dig deeper, “Oh, Xaviera’s already booked? Is it with

prying tone, and as I was about to sidestep with another

rang.

Wallis

come up,” as I saw my chance, I glanced at Sibyl and said, “I’ll have to take a rain check on your cooking.”

wait for her response and bolted out the door.

chill in Rivertown hit me hard as I gulped the cold air, and my insides felt like they turned

I braced myself against the car door, figuring that the queasiness was probably from inhaling disinfectant all night.