“Don’t leave any,” Miranda muttered as she grabbed a dinner roll. “This might not even be enough for Juniper.”
“Understood.” The bewildered housekeeper saw Miranda to the door and turned around to find herself face-to-face with Hayden. Oh, dear. Mr. Schwartz did not look happy.
“Has my wife left?” Hayden asked, his face cold.
“Yes,” the housekeeper replied, then added cautiously, “And she took all the desserts with her.”
“I see.” Hayden glanced at the empty plate, which only had a few crumbs left. They had been a loving couple for over thirty years, and she wouldn’t even leave him a single cookie. Now that she had a “daughter-in-law,” she’d completely forgotten her “dear husband.” His status in the family was already low; he could only imagine how much worse things would get for him and Shanley once Juniper officially joined them.
Sighing, Hayden looked up at the ceiling, feeling nothing but helpless resignation.
---
At the studio, Juniper had gone straight from school to meet Jimmie instead of going home, letting Shanley know on the way.
“You’re joining a show?” Shanley chuckled helplessly and reminded her softly, “Okay, have fun. Don’t be too nervous, just be yourself.”
“I won’t be back for the next two days.” Juniper clutched her phone, a heavy feeling in her chest. “See you Sunday night.”
“Can I visit you on set?” Shanley asked. He knew the show was live, which meant once filming started, she wouldn't be able to leave. He would miss her if he couldn't see her for two days and was also worried she wouldn't sleep well without him.
“We’ll see,” Juniper mumbled, her voice raspy. She actually enjoyed their “secret” relationship, this private world where they weren’t bothered by anyone. If he came to the set, they would easily be photographed. She hadn't figured out how to face public scrutiny if their relationship was exposed. It was all so frustrating.
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