Elodie had tagged her location at the Fairview Crossing Hotel on her social feed.

Unfortunately, her grandmother saw it. Now, faced with her grandmother's questioning, Elodie hesitated, unsure how to respond. "We... we're attending the same event," she finally managed.

She didn't clarify whether they'd come together-mostly because, truthfully, she hadn't known Jarrod's schedule before arriving. And besides, Jarrod was there with Sylvie. That was definitely not something her grandmother needed to know.

Her grandmother's smile widened. "That's wonderful! You two should spend a few extra days out there, treat it like a little vacation. Good for your marriage-every couple needs time away together."

Elodie offered a faint, noncommittal smile and didn't reply.

There was so much her grandmother didn't know. With Sylvie around, Jarrod barely had time for Elodie, let alone for "bonding." She didn't even know which room he was staying in.

"And where's Jarrod? Why isn't he with you?" her grandmother pressed.

Elodie thought for a moment, then answered, "He's still at a business dinner. He'll probably be back at the hotel later."

At that, her grandmother frowned, her tone sharp. "Business dinners, business dinners-does he really need to go to so many? He'd be better off spending time with you!"

Grandma," Elodie

since Jarrod was busy paving the way for Sylvie-nothing

grandmother sighed. "All right. When he gets back, call me on video so I can give him a piece

her grandmother had already hung

a sigh, she pressed her fingers to her forehead, exasperated. Still, she didn't dwell on it, setting her phone aside

At the gala.

Charlie hadn't left yet.

flown in today, mainly as a favor to Jarrod. The young man was bold and decisive, having just dropped a

glasses, but Charlie was never one for small talk. He'd

wasn't until Jarrod arrived with Sylvie that Charlie

smoothed the hem of her dress and greeted him graciously. "Dr. Carter, it's such an honor to meet you. I

his glasses and looked her over. "I heard

"That's right. I did a combined master's and doctoral program. Thanks to your leadership,

on the flattery,

with a glass of wine, stayed

no amount of Alexander's words would matter. He might as

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255