How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue

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!"

all right, Grandma," Elodie

paving the way for Sylvie-nothing could

video so I can give

wanted to refuse, but her

exasperated. Still, she didn't

At the gala.

Charlie hadn't left yet.

young man was bold and decisive, having just dropped a cool two hundred million to support the

ballroom shimmered with laughter and clinking glasses, but Charlie was never one for small talk. He'd already instructed

arrived with Sylvie that Charlie subtly sized up

such an honor to meet you. I actually specialize in aerospace engineering as well would you mind

adjusted his glasses and looked her over. "I heard from Mr. Silverstein that you completed

doctoral program. Thanks to your leadership, our country's aerospace industry is making

laid on the flattery, but

nearby with a glass

to impress the old man, no amount of Alexander's words would matter. He might