chapter1218

When Mrs. Brown mentioned the engagement, Mikey's expression tightened with discomfort. He spoke up right away, "Ma'am, marriage is a big deal. I really think we should wait until I can talk things over with Mr. Brown. It's better to hear his opinion before making any big decisions."

Mrs. Brown's brow creased and there was a flash of annoyance in her eyes, but she just nodded. She didn't push the topic any further.

After lunch, Mona couldn't wait another second. She grabbed Mikey's hand, her voice playful and sweet. "Mikey, you hardly ever come to Maple Town. Let me take you around, okay?"

She didn't even wait for his answer before tugging him out the door.

Mrs. Brown watched them leave, then quietly called the family bodyguard over, sending him to follow at a distance.

Mona was like a little bird as they walked, talking non-stop, pointing out all the unique spots and sights around Maple Town. Mikey nodded along, pretending to pay attention, but his mind was somewhere else. He was worried about Lydia and what was happening on her end. Had Mr. Brown believed the whole story about the clones? What should they do next?

Mona pulled him into a fancy shopping mall. "LYLX has the most beautiful clothes. Come with me and check them out!"

Mikey paused, surprised. Wasn't that Lydia's store? Before he could even process it, Mona was already clinging to his arm, pulling him along with her.

Inside the LYLX boutique, Mona gasped, all wide-eyed. "Oh wow, are these all the new fall styles?"

She came here a lot, that much was obvious.

A sales associate came over with a bright smile. "Yes, Miss Brown. All of these limited editions are designed by the founder herself. Try on anything you like."

Mona dove right in, picking up dress after dress, holding each one in front of her as she turned to Mikey. "What do you think of this one?"

Mikey couldn't help but notice how creative and bold the designs were. Lydia really was talented.

Soon Mona disappeared into the fitting room with a new outfit. Mikey finally had a minute to himself, so he pulled out his phone and sent Lydia a quick message to check in.

Her reply came almost instantly:

[Stay calm. Mr. Brown knows the truth. See you tonight.]

Relief washed over Mikey. He let out a long breath he didn't realize he'd been holding.

Just then, Mona's voice rang out from the fitting room. "Mikey, can you help me with the zipper?"

There were sales staff right there, but she called for Mikey anyway. The staff just exchanged quiet, knowing smiles. They'd seen plenty of couples act this way.

Mikey tucked away his phone and walked over. As soon as he reached the door, Mona pulled him inside.

The fitting room was tiny. Suddenly Mikey found himself standing way too close to her. He felt awkward and tried to step back but Mona let out a playful little ery. "Ow Mikey, be gentle, you're hurting me."

Mikey stared at her, at a total loss. He hadn't even touched her.

"You..."

Before he could say more, Mona's whole expression changed. Her voice dropped to a whisper, serious and calm. Mikey, I know you're not into me. I'm not going to chase after you anymore."

Mikey froze, not expecting that.

Mona kept going, her tone gentle but direct. "Do you think I've been following you

around because I want something from you?"

A wave of unease rippled through Mikey. He stepped back, frowning. "Miss Brown, what are you talking about? First you wouldn't leave me alone now you say this. What do you want from me?"

Mona looked him straight in the eye. "You don't have to keep your guard up. What if

I told you... my mother is a clone? Would you believe me?

Mikey's eyes went wide.

Lydia's investigation had already revealed the truth. Not just Mrs. Brown-Mona was

a clone, too.