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

Pick any you like.

”

Hannah shook her head.

“No, I can’t stay.

on

a long trip from Lightby

place downtown or maybe

”

looked a bit surprised, but

keep in touch,

“Sure, Jalen.

”

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

show? I’d

”

her words,

cleaning the same

art shows

all kinda the same,

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

‘s BunnyBookery

Well, here I am.

the hesitation about me

up? You hiding

“No, that’s not it.

quickly replied, his

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

to