Chapter 13
Suddenly, rapid footsteps sounded at the door.
Reed seemed about to say something but looked toward the entrance as Grace
walked in carrying a thermos.
“Olivia, I brought you a snack. Hospital food isn’t great, is it?
“When you’re better, I’ll drag my friend here to apologize to you and Noah, even if I have to tie her up.”
Her tone was sincere, without a hint of fakeness.
I remembered then that the woman was the daughter of one of the company’s
business partners.
If they had a direct confrontation, Reed would likely win, but it would cause massive negative publicity for the company.
I shook my head.
“Noah did commit a crime. It’s understandable that people are afraid.
“Let’s drop it. I don’t want to talk about it anymore.”
“You really are as generous as Reed says.
“We should get going. Reed promised to have dinner with me tonight.”
She looked up at Reed.
After they left, Noah arrived.
The little energy I had regained vanished.
After a long silence, he finally spoke, but only to apologize.
I hugged him.
“None of this is your fault. You did nothing wrong. Let’s not talk about it anymore,
okay?”
He was unnaturally calm.
“Olivia, don’t worry. I’ll work hard to be useful.
“By the way, do you like Mr. Harlow?
“I can tell. And he likes you too.”
He grinned like a child eager for gossip.
His expectant expression reminded me of when he used to beg me for stories as a
1/2
child.
It had been a very long time since I’d spoken honestly with anyone. I ruffled his hair.
“Yes, I do like him, but he’s way out of my league.
“And what makes you think he likes me?
“He’s engaged to your boss’s daughter–a perfect elite match.
“Let’s just focus on making a good life for ourselves, you and me.
“How does that sound?”
He nodded firmly.
I closed my eyes.
Those unspoken feelings were like a sour candy–I couldn’t bite into it, but I couldn’t bring myself to spit it out either. All I could do was swallow the acidic juices.
I fell asleep without realizing it. When I woke up, Noah was gone.
