Chapter 14
Whitfield led Lynne up to the entrance of his own gallery.”
The moment she stepped inside, she was stunned by the design.
She’d toured plenty of venues since coming here, but none had ever felt quite right. Each time, after a quick look around, she’d walk away, unimpressed.
Now, her face lit up with delight as she admired the interior. “What was this place before? Was it always a gallery?”
How else could it fit so perfectly with everything she’d pictured?
Whitfield’s lips curled in a smile. “Do you like it? If you do, it’s yours to rent.“@
She glanced around, eyes bright but practical. “The location’s prime. I bet the rent’s not cheap, is it? Name your price.”
Seeing her get straight to business, Whitfield unconsciously sat up a bit straighter, a spark of anticipation flickering across his face.
“Pay whatever you think is fair. I’m not hurting for money, but I do have one condition.“}
Lynne paused, her excitement dimming as she grew cautious. “And what’s that?”
“I need to land a deal on a project. The client and his wife are from the same background as you, and you share similar interests. I need your help. If you agree, not only will I waive the rent, I’ll even add a generous bonus. Think about it–deal?“}
Lynne’s brows drew together as she hesitated, not noticing how Whitfield seemed oddly tense, as if bracing for her rejection.!
She was just about to respond when he cut in, sweetening the offer.
With such tempting terms, Lynne genuinely wavered.
“It’s just cooperation? Nothing more?“}
“Just your cooperation. That’s all.”
Whitfield’s sincerity was unmistakable, and after a moment, Lynne finally nodded.}
Whitfield’s clenched fists loosened instantly, and though he tried to suppress it, a wide grin threatened to break free. For a second, he looked almost lost, as if unsure what to do with himself.”
“I’m going to step outside to make a quick call. Feel free to explore the upstairs.“}
Once Whitfield left, Lynne made her way up the staircase.}
She gazed around the second floor, satisfied. The decor, the furnishings–everything matched her taste. It was as if someone had curated it specifically for her.
She couldn’t help but be surprised. Before she could dwell on it, though, her attention was caught by a movement outside the tall windows.
Down at the door, Whitfield was literally bouncing with excitement, fists raised in triumph, grinning from ear to ear. Who knew what had him so elated??
Lynne hadn’t expected this playful side to him. It was so unexpected, she couldn’t help but laugh.
Sunlight spilled across her fair face, melting away the last traces of her reserve.}
…2
After Balfour’s eyesight recovered, he returned to the Tobin family home.”
He’d barely stepped inside when his stepfather summoned him to the study.
It didn’t take long before the shouting started. Balfour stormed out, wrenching open the door. His mother stood just outside, worry etched on her face. She glanced at him, hesitated–and then, with a conflicted look, walked back into the study.
Balfour lowered his head and let out a bitter laugh.
He knew he’d never be her first choice, yet he still kept hoping.
A cold emptiness settled in his chest. His thoughts drifted, unbidden, to Lynne.
No matter what–right or wrong–Lynne had always stood by him, unwavering.
But someone like her… he’d never have that again.
His eyes reddened, but just then, his phone buzzed again in his pocket.
He answered on autopilot. Cynthia’s voice blared through the speaker, her frustration barely contained, and his irritation only deepened.
But Cynthia, ever perceptive, quickly calmed herself.
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Chapter 14
“Balfour, where are you? Can I come find you?”
By then, Balfour had already retreated to what used to be his and Lynne’s home.
He sat alone in the dark, clutching the pillow Lynne once loved to hug, pressing his face into it and breathing in what little was left of her scent.
Empty beer bottles littered the floor. He staggered toward the bedroom, but something caught his foot, sending him sprawling.
As he tried to get up, his eyes fell on a box he’d knocked over.
Suddenly, the haze of alcohol cleared. He scrambled over, picking up the phone that had slid out beside the box.
It was Lynne’s phone. How had it ended up here?!
