Chapter 437
Autumn stood frozen in place, her mind racing as she tried to recall where she had seen that face before. Then it clicked.
The variety show livestream–yes, the one called “Country Comfort.”
Whipping out her phone, Autumn quickly launched the video app and scrolled until she found the clip of Mirabella, face half–hidden behind a mask. No wonder she looked familiar–it was Juztin’s sister!
Autumn blinked in disbelief, a bit flustered at her own oversight. How on earth did she not recognize Mirabella the moment she laid eyes on her?
Stomping her foot in frustration, Autumn berated herself. Why, oh why, did she have to rant about that sleazy playboy with Juztin’s sister? Couldn’t they have talked about literally anything else?
That darn playboy had ruined her quality time with Juztin’s sister.
As Autumn caught sight of Zach approaching, she huffed with annoyance and spun on her heel to leave.
Zach, stopping in his tracks, was puzzled.
After Mirabella left, she made a quick trip to the restroom. When she emerged, her phone buzzed from within her coat pocket. It was Zach calling. She picked up, exchanged a few words, and then hung up.
She didn’t return to the speed dating event but headed straight for the park exit. Before leaving, she deliberately lifted her gaze to the spot where she had been sitting earlier. There was no sign of James, so she let her gaze fall away.
Zach was waiting at the park’s entrance. As Mirabella approached, she noticed his sour expression. Pulling down her mask, she asked with suspicion, “Zach, what’s up with you?” He looked perfectly cheerful chatting up that beauty earlier. Zach glanced at his sister, wondering how to explain being snubbed in such an embarrassing way. Could he even mention it?
Taking a deep breath, Zach forced a smile. “It’s nothing.”
“Oh, did you find anyone interesting?” Mirabella asked casually.
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Zach felt a vein throb at his temple. “No.” He checked his watch and started walking towards the parking lot. “It’s almost noon. Let’s grab some lunch.”
Mirabella raised an eyebrow and followed.
****
Half an hour later, their car pulled up outside an upscale downtown restaurant. Mirabella stepped out, waiting for Zach to park. Turning to him, she said in a low voice, “Zach, I forgot my wallet today.”
Zach’s lips twitched in response. “…I’ve got it covered.” Well, their family owned this restaurant anyway.
Straightening her posture, Mirabella led the way inside. Upon entering the grand foyer, with its luxurious and costly decor, she couldn’t help but marvel inwardly at the perks of wealth: living in the finest homes, dining on the finest food–nothing that the backwoods could ever compete with.
The maitre d‘ had just seen off a group of distinguished guests when he caught sight of Mirabella. His voice unintentionally hitched, “Welcome… to our establishment!”
The excitement was palpable in his voice as he spoke the last words.
Mirabella gave him a glance, finding something oddly familiar about him. Where had she seen him before? After a moment’s thought, she remembered the delivery guy from a while back–it was him.
She glanced at his name tag, impressed, and commented, “You’ve done pretty well for yourself.” Going from delivery guy to restaurant manager in no time–that took some real skill.
The manager cleared his throat, replying humbly, “It’s all thanks to the boss‘ support.”
“Keep up the great work!” Mirabella encouraged sincerely.
The manager stood up straighter, his expression firm with resolve. “I will!”
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