“Actually.” Colleen released a gentle sigh before confessing truthfully, “The arrangements weren’t my doing. Zane handled everything.” N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on find[?]ovel.net
“What?” Shock rendered Hadley speechless. “Truly? He never mentioned it.”
“That’s precisely Zane’s nature.”
While Colleen respected this quality, it simultaneously drove her to distraction. “His excessive modesty explains why everyone labels him a chronic people-pleaser.”
“Honestly…” Hadley’s soft laughter escaped. “He should have shared this with me.”
Hadley’s expression revealed no deeper contemplation beyond surface gratitude.
Colleen’s lips pressed together as uncertainty gripped her. “Hadley…”
“Hmm?” Hadley lifted her gaze expectantly, waiting for her to continue.
“Nothing…” Colleen forced a smile and shook her head dismissively. Better to abandon the thought entirely. She had promised herself strict neutrality in their affairs. Having already assisted Zane minimally, Colleen believed his romantic revelations remained his responsibility.
“These sandwiches have remarkable flavor.”
“Absolutely.” Hadley nodded appreciatively. “Despite this establishment’s modest size, their handcrafted breakfasts deliver authentic, superior taste.”
Upon finishing her meal, Hadley rose immediately to relieve Zane of his duties.
“Zane.” Hadley’s voice carried gentle warmth as her eyes found Joy nestled in his embrace, followed by an apologetic smile. “Your kindness means everything.”
“Truly, it required no sacrifice.” Zane’s response matched her gentle tone. “She weighs practically nothing—caring for her demanded minimal effort.”
“Please, go nourish yourself.” Hadley gestured toward the makeshift tables nearby, laden with food, while extending her arms invitingly. “Allow me to hold her.”
“No.” Zane shook his head in gentle refusal. “My grip remains secure and steady. Kids startle easily during sleep—disturbing her would be unwise. They require uninterrupted rest, or their temperament suffers dramatically.”
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He hesitated for a moment before making a request. “Would you mind fetching my meal? I can manage eating while supporting Joy comfortably.”
“Of course…” Hadley nodded in quick agreement. “I’ll retrieve your food immediately. Any dietary limitations I should consider? The selection includes toast, sandwiches, milk, coffee, and juice—what appeals to you?”
“A sandwich paired with juice would be perfect.”
“Good. Wait here.” Hadley nodded and turned gracefully.
She selected a sandwich first, then approached the beverage table, where a solitary juice box remained.
Her hand reached toward the last juice, fingers just about to touch it. Without warning, another hand swept in from her peripheral vision and landed directly on top of hers.
“Oh!”
Her gaze lifted, colliding with equally startled eyes. Recognition struck like lightning—Eric stood before her.
“Hadley.” Eric pulled his hand back and offered a sheepish, almost pleading smile. “Want the juice? You can have it.”
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