The Unshackled Queen: Never Say Never by Gilbert Soysal

“Don’t mind them, Jalen.

Just keep eating.

”

Jalen served more food to Hannah.

“You should eat too.

”

Staring at her bowl, Hannah felt a bit queasy.

“No, I’m good, Jalen.

Maybe we should try some local takeout next time.

I’d like to try what this place has to offer.

”

“The local cuisine here isn’t that great.

”

Hannah forced a smile, not admitting that even the worst local dish couldn’t compare to her cousin’s cooking.

After they had dinner, Hannah made her way to the kitchen to clean the dishes.

Coming back, she noticed Jalen had moved the paintings around in the living room.

Jalen offered, “Hey, you’re welcome to use my drawing studio while you’re here.

a few

Pick any you like.

”

Hannah shook her head.

“No, I can’t stay.

here on a

from Lightby to this

a place downtown or maybe just book

”

but he agreed,

keep in

“Sure, Jalen.

”

organize his paintings, Hannah ventured, “You know, Jalen, I’m around Newfort

art show?

”

words, Jalen’s

the same

seen art shows

all kinda the same, aren’t

against the wall, smiled, “Remember when you first came to Newfort? You said if I ever visited,

‘s BunnyBookery

Well, here I am.

hesitation about me

paused, then added, “What’s up? You hiding something

“No, that’s not it.

replied,

suddenly, the painting frame slipped from his hands, crashing loudly onto the

bent to