Ferdinand gave Mary a gentlemanly smile. “I studied abroad for a while. When the right opportunity came along, I took out a loan and started my own business. Just got back last week."

Mary nodded and asked, "Are you planning on going abroad again?"

Ferdinand glanced at Briony. "No, I'm staying here for good. Northborough is home now."

Briony finished the last bite of her cake, set the empty plate aside, and stood up. "You two carry on. I've got to get going."

As soon as Mary heard Briony was leaving, she sprang up to follow. "Briony, wait for me-ah!"

Briony paused at the sound, but Mary, rushing too fast, couldn't stop in time. She collided right into Briony, let out a shriek, and tumbled straight toward Ferdinand, who was still sitting at the table.

Briony managed to steady herself by grabbing the table just in time.

"Bryn!"

"Ms. Kensington!"

Ferdinand and Maynard both called out in alarm.

Maynard was the first to reach her. He bent down, concern in his eyes. "Are you all right? Did you hurt yourself?"

Briony had twisted her ankle.

And it was bad-when she tried to put weight on her right foot, a sharp pain shot through her.

Before she could protest, Maynard simply swept her up in his arms. "I'm taking you to the hospital."

"Maynard, put me down-"

I'll leave as soon as a doctor says you're

her out of the hall, not

aside, his gaze fixed coldly on Maynard's retreating figure as

in the crowd, a paparazzo caught the whole scene-Maynard carrying Briony

Briony even made it to the hospital, rumors about her and Maynard

just as

was badly sprained. She'd need

and gently lifted

moment. "You know, I can't help but think

Her phone

up with news that you and Mr.

blinked, then quickly pulled

a photo of Maynard

ankle. Mr. Maynard just gave me a ride to the hospital.

Which

"Your family's hospital."

to pick

protest, but Stella cut her off, reminding her that Cedric was on call tonight.

trouble

Maynard any further.

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

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