With a concerned frown, Ryanna quietly inquired, “Annie, did you need something today?”
Despite Ryanna’s specific instructions for no interruptions, Annie had pushed her way in.
Annie could tell that Ryanna was not pleased, though the reason escaped her. She approached Ryanna, linking arms with her affectionately, and replied, “Ryanna, it’s been several days since we last met. I’ve really missed you.”
It had been some time since their last encounter, which had taken place at Fiona’s house. Annie had concerns that the recent events might push Ryanna away, and this was troubling. Her family relied on Ryanna’s support, especially considering future matters that would likely require her involvement.
A quick exchange of looks between Annie and Ryanna revealed much. Annie’s concerns were written all over her face, though she tried to mask them.
Observing this, Katelyn briefly met Annie’s gaze before redirecting her attention to the exquisite jewelry, noting internally how adept Annie was at currying favor.
However, Annie, noticing Katelyn’s glance, shot her a displeased look and asked sharply, “Miss Bailey, what brings you here today? Or perhaps…”
Her gaze then shifted to the jewelry laid out on the table. After examining a piece, she turned to Katelyn with a sneer and said, “It appears someone is merely here to benefit themselves, doesn’t it?”
Hearing those words, Katelyn paused in her steps…
Toward the front, offering Annie a slight smile as she responded, “Are you suggesting that Ryanna is an easy mark?”
Ryanna’s mood visibly darkened, though she attempted to conceal her irritation.
Annie quickly sensed her mistake and immediately sought to amend her words. “Ryanna, I didn’t mean it that way. Please don’t take it wrong. I just…”
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“Alright, that’s enough!” Ryanna interjected, her dissatisfaction with Annie’s remarks clear.
Knowing that Ryanna rarely showed her temper, Annie realized she had genuinely angered her. Deciding it was best not to provoke her further, Annie worked to calm herself. She flashed a conciliatory smile, gently tugged at Ryanna’s arm, and said, “I’m truly sorry. I promise not to make such mistakes again.”
Although occasionally naive, Annie understood the importance of not upsetting Ryanna. Clearly, now was not the time to alienate her. From the sidelines, Katelyn observed the power dynamics at play. Annie, typically willful, showed deference to Ryanna. Even if she was internally disgruntled, Annie had to swallow her dissatisfaction.
Ryanna’s stern response visibly changed Annie’s behavior, making her far more compliant and less troublesome.
Katelyn chose to disregard Annie’s presence, which helped maintain a peaceful atmosphere. She continued to examine the jewelry, each piece strangely familiar, resonating with a deep sense of recognition.
Upon further reflection, Katelyn couldn’t pinpoint where she had encountered these items before. Her memory was usually impeccable; once she saw something, it rarely escaped her recollection. This left her confident that these items were new to her. Yet the nagging familiarity puzzled her. Katelyn remained mystified by the connection she felt.
Noticing Annie’s subdued behavior, Ryanna offered Katelyn a warm smile and suggested, “Katelyn, the flowers in the back garden are in full bloom. Would you care to see them?”
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Message from Noah: Have a wonderful weekend, lovely people. God loves you, and Noah wishes you all the best. (? ? – ? ) ?
P.S.: The new improvements are now live ? you can tweak your reading settings from the little gear icon to make things more comfortable. All updates and announcements are shared first in the galn?vels community on WhatsApp/Telegram. ( ? ? – ) ?
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