No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

I stared at his face, still so achingly familiar. How could I ever consider him a stranger? But I had to break ties, had to let him go. With a smile, I said, "I've already come to see you as a stranger."

Conrad's grip on my hand trembled before I gently pulled away, stood up, and walked off. I wasn't sure when exactly he left, but I read through the message he'd sent. It mirrored what Allen had mentioned the day before, filled with details about the Phipps family, their parents, and siblings. Conrad was trying to make sure I didn't confuse Phipps with Ernest, to prevent any misidentification.

I skimmed through the message, chuckled, and returned Allen's call around noon. Perhaps he was holding a grudge for my missed call the night before; he didn't pick up. Not bothering to call again, I went straight to Sapphire Lounge that evening. I approached the lobby manager directly, "I'm here to see Mr. Clark. Just tell him Ms. Hudson is asking for him."

"Ms. Hudson, right this way!" The lobby manager treated me with utmost courtesy, clearly briefed by Allen about me. Probably Allen was on guard, fearing what I might uncover. I didn't fuss about it, took my seat in the arranged room, and when asked what service I desired, I opted for some fruit and drinks, deliberately not mentioning Phipps. Allen was using Phipps as bait, and I decided to play along for a while.

Soon after, Allen arrived, "Knew Ms. Hudson would come today."

"I'm here to settle the bill," I said, laying out a check on the table. The contract had specified the amount. Allen didn't glance at the check but fixated on me, "Just settling the bill?"

stand?" I played along with

for you, Phipps took a leave. Won't be around here for a while," Allen said, his smile carrying a hint of

I retorted, causing Allen to touch his nose in

then remarked, "Thought Ms. Hudson had a...

with a knock-off face. I'm not dumb enough to value someone just for their looks," I demeaned Phipps thoroughly. I wanted Allen to know he couldn't manipulate

check, Mr. Clark," I concluded, pressing the service call,

"Ms. Hudson, tonight's on me. Invite as many as you like." Since he offered, didn't hold back, inviting a few more to join and

but

asked about