“There are still some activities at school, so I won’t be joining you guys,” Chris said as he grabbed his backpack and headed out the door.
Celia hesitated for a moment, glancing apologetically at Gwyneth. “Big sis, I signed up for the FSA exams too. I probably won’t be able to keep you company either.”
Gwyneth understood. She’d come home just to check in on them, after all. Victoria and her father were already tucked away to the side, eavesdropping on the kids’ conversation, catching every word.
After dinner at the old family house, Gwyneth headed back to her new place.
The porch lights and all the rooms inside were already on. The staff had trickled in over the past few days, which was nice in its own way. Even though Gwyneth usually preferred peace and solitude, a house this big felt less empty with people around—especially with Hawthorne away.
Ever since Hawthorne left, she’d found herself counting the days until he’d return. The idea of him staying with her in Starfall City sounded nice in theory, but deep down she knew it wasn’t realistic. She did love the fresh seafood here, and the rhythm of city life, but truth be told, her heart belonged to Greenvale.
Greenvale was perfect for living well—especially in spring and autumn, when the streets were shaded by towering trees and every block looked like something from a painting. The old town, with its vintage charm, was Gwyneth’s favorite place in the world.
She’d fallen in love with the warmth and scenery of the south the very first time she visited. But most of all, she loved Hawthorne, who had quietly taken up all the space in her heart.
Back at home, she freshened up and then lay in bed with a book. At eight o’clock sharp, Hawthorne’s call came through.
Gwyneth picked up, beaming.
“What are you up to?” His deep, magnetic voice instantly warmed her from the inside out.
“Just reading,” she replied.
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