No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

Chapter 793

"I bet you won't either," Fanny teased me, but I knew she was on my side.

Fanny and I stepped into the ballroom, where Rodney was basking in the glow of well-wishers, decked out in a dashing purple and gold suit. He was all smiles, accepting gifts with the grace of someone who owned the room.

When he saw my gift, his eyes lit up. "This one's special. I really like it."

His compliment made me blush. I knew Conrad's mom had also gifted a painting, so why was mine so unique? Herschel Lake sure had a way with words, making every gift-giver feel like a star.

"Fanny, where's your Yates? Why didn't he come along?" Mr. Anderson inquired.

Fanny nudged me with her elbow and replied, "Oh, Mr. Anderson, I didn't bring him because I wanted to see you."

The old man, wise beyond his years, chuckled softly, knowing well enough that my presence didn't hinder Yates's attendance. After all, the birthday bash was open to everyone.

"Go on, grab a bite," Mr. Anderson said indulgently, "but don't stray too far. I'll need your help later."

Fanny and I exchanged a glance. "You don't mean we're cutting the cake for you, do you?" Fanny joked.

With a playful tap on Fanny's forehead, Mr. Anderson replied, "You little rascal, I'm perfectly capable of wielding a knife. I need you two to help me with something else."

Fanny quipped, fearless of

getting bolder by the minute. No, I need you to help find Sinclair a

"He's in his mid- thirties and hasn't even had a

laugh, but Fanny didn't hold back. "Well, Grandpa, they might not be

Anderson scolded lightly, gesturing toward the

his gaze and saw a flurry

a

get moving, or you might miss your chance," I teased

laughed, pretending to swat

though, why hasn't your uncle found someone?" I asked, genuinely

would I know? We haven't really talked since the

it really that

like a clean break. No contact since," Fanny sighed,

iel

both avoiding each other just shows how much it still bugs you, "1 nudged her. "If

glared at me, "What

I

I never think