Claudia ended their ta

oice sharp with intensity. "I was the one who initiated eve

ced him directly. "If it's not over, then let's get

o you think she'd accept that you've be

erberated throughout the building. Alone in the now quiet room, C

e was in the process of resigning from the company. Though Eddie hadn't approved it ye

or a meal, mentioning it had been a l

"Gwyneth might not be happy to se

. Can't you move past it all? Gwyneth is the one who asked you to come this time. Sh

o complain. Eventually, Claudia's irritation gre

r the family gathering, it was

all his responsibilities to her, as if to purposely complicate her day. Cl

ace, she was greeted by the s

d has missed you terribly these past

need to think it over car

nto view. Catching Gwyneth's eye, she received a

knowledgment. "It's

r work. Meanwhile, Claudia's stepfather, Javier Riley, was on the verge of asking the maid

perked up wit

e clock, she excused herself and stepped out, only

ickie with a nod. "Mr. and M

ho had been sipping her juice nonchalantly, suddenly found herself staring.

uptly, a mix of surprise and recognitio

a calm smile. "Mr. Ri

e as either affluent or influential, given Javier's keen interest. S

ietly, a shy smile playing on her