chapter430

Lydia blinked awake, catching sight of Connor as he sat up. She gave him a lazy, teasing smile. What's wrong? You scared?"

Connor coughed, trying to play it cool. "No, I just... don't want Blake to get the wrong idea about me."

Honestly, he and Lydia hadn't even had their engagement party yet, and Blake had just warned him last night to keep things proper between them. Now, here he was, caught red-handed. The whole situation was painfully awkward.

A warm, gentle voice called from the hallway. Ms. Norwood, are you up?"

Connor froze.

Lydia let out a soft laugh. That's Jenny. She works with me."

Connor's awkwardness doubled. For the first time, he really understood what it felt like to get caught doing something you shouldn't.

"I'll get the door," he mumbled.

Lydia nodded. And go back to your own room, please."

Connor didn't even bother replying. He just got up and left.

Jenny had been worried since she couldn't get ahold of Lydia yesterday. She knew Lydia wasn't one to sleep late, so she came by first thing, hoping everything was okay.

As soon as the door opened, Jenny started to speak, "Ms. Norwood, you "

She stopped short, eyes wide, completely stunned.

Wait, was that... another man?

Her brain just kind of glitched. She stood there, frozen, her mouth opening and closing, but no sound coming out.

Connor glanced at her, his voice cool and flat. "She's inside."

He walked off without another word.

Jenny was left reeling. She thought about Blake from last night, then compared the two in her head, wondering which one Lydia was actually into. Or more importantly, Ms. Norwood liked more.

which one!

Maybe it was the one who just left her room... after all, he'd spent the night.

"Come in," Lydia called out from inside.

Jenny hurried in, still a little dazed. Seeing Lydia just getting out of bed, Jenny felt her cheeks heat up. "Ms. Norwood, did I... interrupt your... rest?"

Lydia brushed it off. "No worries. I was just really tired."

Jenny's mind was racing. With two guys like that around, who wouldn't be flustered?

"Ms. Norwood, was something urgent going on yesterday? We couldn't get in touch with you, Jenny said, her worry clear.

"I'm fine. Sorry for making you worry. Oh, and I haven't congratulated you yet on your win. You did amazing."

were

Jenny's eyes shone with gratitude. "I wouldn't have done it without your help. And when Sierra tried to set me up during the competition, you w the first to find the evidence really don't know how to thank you."

Lydia smiled. You've got real talent as a designer. I just gave you a little nudge."

Jenny shook her head. "No, seriously. Without you, I wouldn't be where I am now. I'll make sure to repay you, one way or another."

Lydia's smile softened. "Alright.

Jenny nodded. I will. Ms. Norwood, when are you heading back home?"

"I still have a few things to wrap up here. I'll probably go in a few days. You can head back first."

"Okay."

Jenny went back to her room to

pack. When she opened her door to leave, she nearly bumped right into Blake He was dressed to impre holding a giant bouquet of sunflowers, about to knock on

Lydia's door.

Behind him stood a line of men in black suits, each one carrying bags from top designer brands. Jenny glanced over them in awe. They were all luxury labels, the kind you only ever see in fashion magazines.