That seemed impossible since Uwasn’t the one Yvette truly wanted Our separation was inevitable, just a matter of time. Instead of engaging, I focused on my meal and casually said, “Why
anyone?
When I showed no reaction, Nancy tuned her attention to Zia with a teasing smile. “You’re so pretty. Are you seeing anyo
Zinqukkly responded, “Ms Lane, I already have a beydfriend“.
Nancy cased an eyebrow, smicking “Good to know. Since Chen’s going to be your boss, keep some professional distance. You wouldn’t want your boyfriend getting the wrong idea.”
I found myself frustrated by Nancy’s assumptions. I could not help but think she and Yvette were truly two peas in a pot, always seeing romance where there was none.
While | stayed quiet, Zia rushed to explain, “That won’t happen! My bodies and are very happy. Even though he’s leaving to go abroad, we’ve promised to stay together no matter the
durance.”
“It’s going abroad? When?” Nancy asked, suprised.
“originally in three days, but he changed it to tom row because of the forecast storm,” is replied.
“Tomorrow? I was startled by how quickly time had passed After tomorrow, Yvette would likely discove her feelings for Randall and chase after him abroad in dramatic fashion.
Nancy finished warning Zia and turned to lecture me “Owen, don’t let her innocent face fool you. Compared to Yvette, she’s nowhere near her level.”
She leaned in, whispering, “At the end of the day, relationships beil dom to money. Yvette’s a powerhouse in business. She’s gorgeous and smart–the only thing she’s got less of age. You’dhemary to that up
Her words rated on me.
and I could not hold back. “Were you cheated on or something? Why is your mind always in the gutter?” Nancy jest laughed it oft. “Relax, I’m just looking out for you! Cheers!”
I clinked glasses with her half–heartedly, maintaining an amiable front before returning to my meal. There was no point arguing, especially when I still had to stop by the hospital later to check on my uncle’s recover.
As we were finishing up, Nancy’s phone rang, To my surprise, she didn’t excuse herself and answered it at the table.
look who it is she said brightly, her tone familiar. “What a surprise! You’re actually calling me first?
I glanced at her out of the romer of my eye catching the amused smile on her face. “Drinks? Feeling down? Who ticked you off–my dear brother–in–law, Den?” Nancy teased, shooting m a pointed look as she emphasized the words “brother–in–law
My heart skipped a bear with a bad feeling, and I wondered if it was quickly dismissed the idea. After all, she must be happy now without me around, free to see Randall whenever
Nancy continued refusing the caller, “No can do I’m busy with that amazing and Owen Yates you’ve been looking for.”
internally gred I had chosen a new pseudonym specifically to keep a low profile, but Nancy had just blom my cover despite promising to keep it secret.
Ziz’s eyes widened with shock and excitement as she whispered, “Mr. Yates, you’re actually that famous artist? I thought it was just a coincidence!”
I qurdy made a shushing gesture to Zia, feeling anxious. Though celebrities came and went in this industry, I had gained attention for my early success. Nonetheless, after a year away the scene, my skills weren’t what they used to be
Although her excitement was barely contained, Zia was wise enough to drop the subject. Meanwhile, Nancy continued her phone conversation
“? You’re coming hece? Alright, I’ll send you the location.”
Not wanting to meet anyone who my background, especially some connected to the unreliable Hancy, I patted her shoulder and whispered, “I need to visit my uncle at the hospital.
After a quick goodbye to Zia, I made my escape. I had only come today to get the job sorted out anyway; I was not technically starting you
Nancy said something else as I left, probably explaining why I had suddenly bolted to the person on the phone. I did not care any normal person would not be loolding for me at the hospital, I picked up two take out meals on my way to the hospital, figuring Lila would be there with my uncle. When I arrived at the open hospital zoom, I found them sitting together–Uncle Benjamin looking at ease while Lila seemed restless
“What’s got you two so absorbed teased as entered
Both locked up at my woce, and Lila’s ayes brightened “Owen, you’re back! How did the job go
I nodded. “All umooth. Have you eaten you? I brought food.”
Lila took the food with a smile and said, “Tenjamin and are in the middle of a game. We’ll sat altay.”
Looking at the bound, I could elejamin had Lila’s places comered while she contemplated her next move. Though I was not much of a chess player, the outcome seemed obvious. “Lila, this is painful to watch Uncle Benjamin’s definely got you beat,” I joked
Lila furrowed her brown subdanny, “There might still be a chance for a comebuch!”
My undle praised ter persistence, saying it showed true gaming spirit. After a few more moves, Lilla admitted defeat–my uncle’s strategy was unbeatable. He complimented her play. noting that while she was not a tournament player, her skill was impressive
Lila’s eyes lit up as she turned to me. “Owen, would you like to my a game?
I quickly declined, “Noway Interrible at chess. Besides, I wouldn’t dare challenge
Uncle Benjamin laughed hear illy at my compliment, clearly enjoying the flattery
Lilla smiled and added, “Benjamin is exceptional at chess did you know him?
even i can’t compete. Speaking of masters, it remind me of The Magician, the national champion who retired early. Benjamin,
