“Angela, what are you doing here? Surely you don't think... Oh no, don't tell me you're jumping to conclusions again.”
A voice feigning surprise came from behind, but I didn't bother to turn around.
“Angela, why the silent treatment?”
Kolton's voice was as cool and detached as ever, and it inexplicably sparked a wave of irritation within me.
“Why aren't you saying anything? Are you suspecting something is going on between Zendaya and me again? I've explained over and over; you're really making this exhausting.”
“Or is this about the project? I told you, let's just consider it a favor for Zendaya. There's no need to…”
He was chattier than usual, which was unlike the typical Kolton. I mused to myself quietly. People always say that when you're guilty, you tend to babble—much like now.
Only after the tears had dried on my face did I turn around. Kolton was still holding Zendaya's hand. The two of them stood side by side, comfortably close. Just like when we were kids, I thought wryly.
Despite the three of us growing up together, I was always the odd one out. There was simply no room for me between them.
Surprisingly, I calmly accepted this fact.
When Kolton noticed my gaze lingering on their intertwined hands, he abruptly let go. His face flushed with awkwardness, struggling to find the right words.
“Angela...”
I gently interrupted him, “About the project, discuss it with my assistant, Hadlee.”
“Let's keep it professional. Follow the procedures, and arrange for the appropriate breach and damage compensation.”
With that, I turned to leave.
But Kolton stopped me. “Let's have dinner tonight.”
I didn't look back. “No, I'm busy.”
Yet Kolton, usually reserved, unexpectedly moved forward and grabbed my arm. I turned my head, our eyes met. There was a complexity in his gaze as he looked at me intently.
“We still need to discuss the engagement plans.”
It was the first time Kolton spoke to me so tenderly. I was momentarily taken aback.
By the time I regained my senses, I had already agreed.
