Under the heiress facade

Chapter 304

Il Christopher had his way, he wanted Hera to go abroad with himn

Just as he readied himself to speak, a jarring ring shattered the forming silence.

Hera retrieved her phone, a flicker of recognition crossing her face when she saw Bernard’s name on the screen. She excused herself and stepped away to

swer the call, “Hello?”

“There you are! School’s been out for ages. What’s keeping you busy? Bernard’s voice washed over the phone, a smooth baritone that could charm the

birds from the trees.

“You mean the afternoon dismissal?” Hera clarified, remembering their earlier conversation.

Unlike most schools, Cavenridge functioned primarily as a boarding institution, with few students electing to return home for the midday break. The academy provided a cafeteria and dorms for them to relax during these hours

There was a beat of surprised silence from Bernard.

“Honestly, I just miss you,” he finally admitted.

her thoughts churning

by, and we

Beard’s refined tastes and the bustling food street atmosphere.

with some classmates. Lunch and shopping are on the agenda afterward. Not exactly the ideal place for you. How about dinner

“How many classmates are you with?”

“Three,” Hera replied.

girls?” His question held a subtle edge.

known that there was a

next breath.

flickered across her face before she answered, “All

fun, then,” Bemard conceded,

the end call button, but before her finger could tap the screen, his magnetic

you miss me?”

stretched, thick with unspoken understanding. Hera knew Bernard well enough to recognize the unspoken pressure.

answer that didn’t appease him would

resigned sigh, she

same,” Berard replied,

phone, a small, involuntary smile playing on her lips. Perhaps a tiny

Katie’s voice cut in. The line had finally shuffled forward

shop’s signature coffee and some local snacks. As she reached for her wallet to pay, a