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74 — CLAIRE, THE BUSYBODY…

Penulis: Blaq
last update Terakhir Diperbarui: 2025-08-09 23:48:52

ASTRID

“…this table was also reserved for the Montessori’s.”

I freeze, certain that he’s messing with me. But the dangerous glint in Gemini’s eyes says otherwise.

Slowly, I turn around and sure enough, the Montessori family are already headed towards us. I swallow quickly, stamping down the panic that threatens to tear through my veins.

Gemini leans closer and takes my hand in his, massaging each of my fingers in slow, soothing circles.

“We can change tables if you want.”

“And why would you do that?” A low, deep baritone cracks through the air.

I would recognize that voice even in my dreams. Silvan.

I don’t bother turning around. The image of Claire latching onto him like a needy octopus has already caused my mind enough damage.

My heart thrums like a bullet train as they occupy the seats opposite us. At that moment, I question fate — why do I always end up in less-than-pleasant situations such as this one?

“Astrid, dear, you look wonderful this evening.” Mrs. Montessori says, loud an
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  • Dear Ex-husband, My Stepbrother is Your Replacement.   89 — MICHAEL’S PROTECTION

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    ASTRIDIt was Mr. Rourke…It was Mr. Rourke…!For a moment, I go stock still, staring at Mary like she’s some exotic creature. A loud, shrill sound explodes somewhere deep in my head. It’s the sound of my inner mind screaming in disbelief, tearing out chunks of my hair.In real time, my fingers turn to mush, falling from Mary’s shoulders and hanging aimlessly by my sides. My body goes rigid with shock. My eyes are wide and vacant as I take in her crumpled face and red-rimmed eyes, searching for evidence that she might be joking.“Mary,” I say gently, “are you sure of what you’re saying? Let’s calm down. Maybe you’re shocked. You’re definitely mistaken.”“Ma’am, I’m not joking!” Mary cries hysterically. “I took the girls out for a stroll and we were attacked by the same men Mr. Rourke sent to protect us!”My veins turn icy with shock. I know Silvan can be a bastard sometimes, but I have seen him with Zoey and Zara. He would never hurt them. Right? Right…?But it’s already too late. T

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