Annie couldn't help but get curious about Mia. Back in Newtown, she’d heard Conner speculating about Mrs. Cedillo. “I can’t believe Mia's just a pretty face without some serious skills; otherwise, she wouldn’t have snagged Andre. My buddy, he's not one to go for looks alone,” Conner had said.
Annie chimed in, “But even he can't resist a second glance at someone attractive.”
Conner nodded in agreement, “But Andre isn’t the type to settle down just because someone’s pretty. Mia must have something special that won him over.”
What that special something was, though, remained a mystery they all pondered.
Then, out of nowhere, Andre announced he was going to be a dad, leaving Conner in a bit of disbelief and even a tad depressed. The Andre who seemed immune to worldly ties had suddenly tied the knot and, just like that, announced he was becoming a father. Not long after, he announced his child's birth. The once-thought eternal bachelor CEO was now a dedicated dad.
With Conner going on about her, Annie’s curiosity about the elusive Mrs. Cedillo grew.
“Easton, if Mrs. Cedillo ever needs to drop by the police station, give me a heads-up, okay?”
Easton quickly interrupted, “You’d better not jinx it.”
Annie looked puzzled, “What’s wrong?”
Easton replied, “I’m just worried you might bring us some bad luck.”
...
When they got to the station, Easton told Annie to head back. “I’m gonna swing by next door; Officer Chad probably hasn’t heard about his factory.”
Annie nodded and headed out.
Meanwhile, Chad was on the trail of a suspicious person, ready to take action when he spotted Easton, who rarely visited. “What’s up?”
“Your factory’s on fire.”
Officer Chad brushed it off as a joke about domestic trouble. “You trying to stir up drama between Molly and me?”
Easton said, “I’m serious. Your factory really caught fire. I’ve got the investigation paperwork right here with your mom and wife’s signatures.”
Chad skeptically took the papers and frowned at Jade’s familiar signature.
Donnie rushed over, “Boss, are we heading out?”
Chad closed the file, handed it back to Easton, and said, “I’ll catch up with you later.”
He turned and quickly got in the car to head out.
Easton didn’t leave but asked a colleague, “What’s got Officer Chad in such a hurry?” It was his first time hearing about Molly’s situation, so he was curious.
“He finally got some leads on that big case, so he’s heading out.”
Easton remembered the fake C case and thought about how Chad had been practically living at the station, working late and rarely going home.
Easton got it and left.
In the car, Chad looked tired as he called his wife.
“Hey, Chad, what’s going on?” Molly’s tone was calm.
Chad rubbed his eyes, “Why didn’t you tell me about the factory?”
Molly replied, “It’s just a small issue. Mom and I can handle it. Plus, Andre’s here, so focus on your work.” Her understanding left Chad feeling a mix of gratitude and concern.
“Are you coming home tonight?”
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