On a weekday morning, Elissa received an unexpected message from Robin.

“Elissa, you left some things at home. When’s a good time for me to drop them off?”

What things? She wracked her brain but couldn’t remember leaving anything behind.

“Not necessary. You can just toss them.”

Robin texted back almost instantly. “It’s your manuscript and a few of your design books. Are you sure you want me to throw them out?”

That gave her pause. Those were definitely not trash-worthy.

She thought it over and replied, “Alright. I’m usually free around noon.” Evenings were impossible—she had to be with Locke and Ernest then.

“Alright. See you at noon.”

They agreed to meet at a restaurant near Elissa’s office during her lunch break.

When she arrived, Elissa pulled out a chair and sat down briskly. “So, where are my things?”

Robin gestured to a small box on the seat beside him. “Right here.”

“Thank you,” Elissa said, lifting the lid to check. Her manuscript, a few dog-eared design books—it was all there. “I appreciate you bringing them.”

Robin arched an eyebrow. “Does this mean you’re buying me lunch?”

Elissa hesitated for a beat. “Sure. No problem.”

Given their complicated history, sharing a meal wasn’t exactly ideal.

Still, he’d done her a favor—she couldn’t just grab the box and leave.

And anyway, she was hungry.

“Great,” Robin said, already reaching for the menu with an amused smile. “Then I’ll do the honors and order.”

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“Go ahead,” Elissa replied, settling in despite herself.

As they were halfway through their meal, Elissa’s phone buzzed. She glanced at the screen and answered. “Hey, Hadley.”

Hadley had heard about Elissa’s mother being hospitalized and was calling to check in.

“When are you going to see her?” she asked gently.

“Mom said it won’t be necessary,” Elissa replied. “The surgery’s over and went smoothly. She’s in recovery now. Honestly, it’d be a hassle to make the trip abroad, and getting that much time off isn’t easy for me right now.”

“Fair point,” Hadley said with understanding, and then switched topics.

“So, no need to reschedule the bridal shop appointment?”

“Nope, no changes,” Elissa said with a reassuring smile. “I’ll be there on time—don’t worry.”

Once the call ended, Robin took a sip of water and looked at her with quiet concern. “Your mom… is she sick?”

“You heard that, huh?” Elissa gave a small nod. “Yeah. She already had the surgery.”

“Was it serious?” This update is available on find·novel·net

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