Zora shot me a glare sharp enough to slice through steel before storming back to the ward.
Jaylan shot me a sidelong glance and began to explain in a hushed tone, "I couldn't find anyone on short notice, so she stepped in to look after my mom."
I cursed silently. What did I care?
But I forced a smile, all sweetness and light. "That's wonderful! She's perfect for the job!"
No sooner had words left my mouth than my phone chirped. A quick glance told me it was Ronan calling. I excused myself and stepped away, Jaylan calling after me, "Allie..."
Not missing a beat, I continued to walk away.
I answered the call and heard Ronan’s voice, "Aaliyah!"
"Yes?"
"Addrion and I have just landed in Goldenvale Town," Ronan's voice was irresistibly charming.
"Oh?" I gasped, a surge of joy flooding me. Addrion was coming home at last. But out of the corner of my eye, I saw Jaylan still watching me, so I reined in my excitement and asked nonchalantly, "Back already?"
Ronan detected the off-note in my voice. "Bad timing? We'll talk later then."
"Sure! Text me where you're staying," I said, and he agreed before hanging up.
I wondered if this time, Addrion would truly come home.
"Allie..." Another soft call.
I glanced back to see Jaylan approaching, his tone uncharacteristically gentle. "Look, Allie... about what I said yesterday, I was heated. Forgive me. Let's sit down somewhere calm and talk it over, okay?"
I gave him a knowing smile. "Your actions speak louder than any talk. We'll discuss this tomorrow." With that, I shot Hannah a look and strode away.
Jaylan probably misunderstood my words and chased after me, "Tomorrow, then. I'll be waiting for you, Allie. Think it over."
I chuckled to myself, mentally snide. Let him wait. He'd get his answer.
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