Chapter 13

Brielle dismissed the barrage of notifications on her phone with a flick of her thumb, “Patrick, could you stop at the next intersection, please?” Her tone was indifferent, laced with a weariness that seemed to seep into the bir around her.

Through the rearview mirror, Patrick tried to glean some sort of cue from Max’s expression, a sign of what he might be thinking, but his face was impassive. As they reached the crossroads, he obeyed the request and brought the car to a smooth halt.

Brielle clutched the box a little tighter, a flicker of disappointment crossing her mind. She had half-expected Max to ask her to stay, but he remained seated, his demeanor as detached as a statue devoid of emotion.

“Uncle Max, not even a goodbye?” she teased, resting against the window, her long hair falling around her face, making it seem even smaller. Her eyes caught the reflection of the vibrant streetlights, beautiful and clear. She was just joking, and before waiting for a response, she walked across the pedestrian walkway, carrying her box.

Max watched her in silence, his gaze lingering long after she’d faded from view.

She was like a wounded animal, licking its injuries alone, trying to bristle with soft spines to protect the last remnants of its.dignity amidst the turmoil.

Brielle walked with her back straight, only slowing her pace when she was out of the reach of that penetrating gaze.

Her apartment was close by. The chill of the evening breeze was just what she needed. Hope only bred greater disappointment.

calling this time. Anxious about not receiving an

and

after, Lillian’s call came through. Probably Spencer again. Those two were inseparable. Another

she powered on her computer to browse job listings but noticed a new email in her inbox instead, an offer letter for the position

eyes widened in disbelief as

message.

she being

a simple question mark. There was a hint of trepidation, fearing she might be misreading his

16.05

Premier Palace yet. He sent it from the car? Imagining him with a stern face, typing each word of this email. Brielle’s lips curved up, and

–[Reward.]

it oddly warmed her

is this you

had left feeling suffocated, and now she had an opportunity to return and turn the tables. She wasn’t about

wait. For now, the

no further replies, she was surprised to receive another email,

had never received any gifts from Spencer during their long acquaintance, and in her thirteen years with the Haywood family, all she had to show was

glaring. Spencer was nothing, not even worth a

Max, I am ready to devote myself entirely to

sense of mischief, enjoying this odd game they played. Max seemed to have a peculiar fondness

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255