Chapter 69
Sophia looked hesitant, casting an uncertain glance my way. When I nodded for Blair to join, she reluctantly followed us inside.
I picked a quiet, out–of–the–way corner. Years of experience had made it instinctive; anywhere I went, if someone recognized me, I’d become the subject of conversation. So, I’d developed a habit of keeping a low profile.
It was a small, almost empty restaurant. I was surprised that someone like Blair didn’t seem bothered at all. She casually picked up the menu, ordered a couple of dishes, and passed it to
- me.
“Any local specialties? I’ve never been here–your call.”
I ordered a few more dishes and turned to hand the menu to Sophia, but she waved it away. Whatever you pick is fine, Samuel. I’m not picky.
Despite her words, I could tell she seemed uneasy with Blair’s presence. She barely spoke to her and kept a wary eye on her the entire time.
Blair didn’t seem fazed, though. She kept her focus on me. “Abigail’s really done a number on you, huh? Forcing you out here into an area like this?”
I wasn’t interested in going down that road, so I cut her off with a small smile. “Was there something specific you wanted to talk about?”
She nodded, her voice soft and sincere. “I wanted to apologize.”
“About the other night… I didn’t know Joshua would be there. I’m sorry, really–it wasn’t intentional.”
Her genuine apology caught me off guard. I smiled and waved it off. “It’s okay. His legs work just fine–he’s free to be wherever he wants. It’s not like we could know ahead of time.”
I was long past being bothered by Joshua showing up. If he came, I’d leave. No big deal.
But Blair seemed genuinely concerned, enough to follow me to this little restaurant. She studied me closely, then spoke in a low voice, “If you want my help, all you need to do is say the word. I’ll help you deal with everything.”
Maybe she was being subtle because Sophia was with us, but I understood her point–she was talking about my divorce from Abigail. But that was between Abigail and me. I didn’t want to involve others, so I just shook my head and said, “Thanks, Ms. Shepherd, but I don’t need help right now.”
“Have you seen the news?” Her gaze pierced me, and her words stung.
“She’s already started going after you. This is just a taste there could be worse to come. Are
dhapter 63
you really going to just keep putting up with It?!
Her words struck a nerve, each one hitting a sore spot. I stayed silent, and she took a deep breath before continuing, her voice calm but urgent. “You can’t keep taking the high road, Samuel. Look at what she’s doing to you–she’s not holding back. It’s time to fight back.”
“Whatever you two had, it’s clearly long gone. Why keep holding on?”
A woman knew another woman’s mind. Blair knew Abigail’s actions were meant to push me to my breaking point.
