Chapter 20
“I hear you’re working at Adams University now?” Zachary asked casually, skillfully deflecting the curious glances around the
tabl
Mia perked up. “You’re at Adams? Are you teaching?”
Her enthusiasm was genuine–she’d clearly taken a liking to Sarah’s gentle demeanor.
“I’m working at the counseling center,” Sarah explained, warmed by the young girl’s obvious delight.
“Really? So I could come visit you?” Mia leaned forward eagerly.
Despite having just met, Mia felt drawn to Sarah’s warmth, finding an unexpected comfort in her presence.
Sarah studied Mia, reminded of a young deer she’d once encountered while hunting–trusting and bright–eyed. 1
“Of course,” she smiled, already fond of this sweet girl.
“Then I’m in your debt for looking after my sister.” Zachary’s voice was smooth as he added another portion to Sarah’s plate.
Sarah caught his eye as she glanced at the food he’d served her. His satisfied expression made her feel like she’d walked right into
his carefully laid plan.
From her seat, Scarlett watched the interaction with barely contained glee. The way Zachary looked at Sarah was telling. Not that
she was surprised–her friend was beautiful, kind, and accomplished. Any man would be lucky to have her.
Unlike James, who couldn’t recognize what he had.
As the evening wound down, Zachary noticed Sarah’s fatigue and gracefully made their exit, ushering Mia and Steven along.
In the car, Mia slouched in her seat, clearly disappointed to leave.
“You’ll have plenty of chances to see her in the future,” Zachary assured her, smoothing her hair.
Plenty of chances?
Mia brightened. “Wait–is she going to be my sister–in–law?”
Zachary’s expression was unreadable, his gaze deep, but finally, he responded in a soft voice, “She will be.”
In the driver’s seat, Steven nearly swerved. Though he’d suspected his boss’s interest, hearing it stated so plainly was shocking
Was this really the same Zachary Reynolds, notorious for his cold and aloof attitude?
Back at the apartment, Scarlett helped Sarah clean up, unable to contain her curiosity.
1/2
“Seriously, Sarah, he’s clearly into you! How did you meet him? Some friend you are, keeping this secret!” she teased.
Sarah tied on an apron, massaging her temples. “He just needed my help with something. Don’t read too much into it. I’m not looking for a relationship anyway.”
Scarlett stopped clearing plates, staring at her friend in horror. “Please tell me you’re not still hung up on that scumbag James?
You can’t stay single
forever!”
