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-"

as soon as a doctor

out of the hall,

his gaze fixed coldly on Maynard's

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

it to the hospital, rumors about her and

as Briony finished her

was badly sprained. She'd need at least a week

borrowed a wheelchair and gently lifted Briony into

a moment. "You know, I can't help but think Mr. Ellsworth is interested in

didn't answer. Her phone

up with news that you and Mr. Maynard

quickly pulled up

a photo

Maynard just gave me a ride to the

Which hospital are you

"Your family's hospital."

Cedric Clarke to pick you up.

Stella cut her off, reminding her that Cedric was

trouble Cedric

Maynard any further.

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

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