Facade of Love

Chapter 201 Tagging Along as a Third Wheel?

I left it at that.

We chatted for a bit, and then I got ready to head out.

Inch broke the silence. “Ms. Scott, are you free next week?”

Without thinking, I replied, “I’m not sure yet. What’s up?”

He gave a small smile. “Well, Charlie’s been cooped up at home recovering. It’s pretty boring for him, and I was thinking of taking him out for a bit. But I’m not sure where to go. You’re from Lake City, so I figured if you were available, maybe you could show us around?”

I hesitated, then chuckled. “I’ve lived here all my life, but, to be honest, I’m not exactly the adventurous type. There’s a lot to do in Lake City, but I’ve barely checked any of it out.”

Then I remembered the vacation island Emily had mentioned. “Anyway, it’s been pretty chilly here lately, not the best for hanging out. You might want to take Mr. Yates over to Tully City. They’ve got this vacation island, and the weather’s great.”

“Are you coming with us?” Inch asked, his eyes lighting up with hope.

I shook my head, still smiling. “My schedule’s up in the air for next week, so I can’t make any promises right now. We’ll just have to play it by ear. If I’m free, I’d love to join you guys.”

“Okay, it’s a deal,” Inch said, his smile lighting up his face. “I’ll chat with Charlie about it soon.” He was on the younger side, and he usually kept a straight face when we talked. Right now, his smile transformed him, making him look even more striking. He was already a looker, and that fresh, youthful vibe that just made you feel better without him even needing to try.

found myself smiling back and

our chat, and he did not grill me with any more questions. After we said our goodbyes, I watched

about to head back to Sweety’s apartment when something caught my eye–a familiar black Bentley parked outside the complex. It belonged

there for a bit before the passenger door swung open. It looked like the people inside did not want to say goodbye. The

but he seemed to say something to her with a frown before he drove off.

time turning around to walk into the complex. I just stood there at the entrance, watching silently, feeling like my heart had

did a double–take, then tried to act like everything was normal. “Were you waiting for me? Have you eaten yet?” she

just looked at her, not saying

held up the pastries she had with

Along as a Third

liked them, so I picked them up. I’m such a

‘silence, just

2/2

stepped back. Her brow creased with concern. “What’s the matter? I didn’t do

car was Liam, right?” I finally burst,

just out shopping and bumped into him. He offered me a ride

inside me. I took a deep breath and asked, Did you just run into him, or was it

totally out of the blue. Why would I lie to you?”