billion book
Chapter 1188
"Seen him? Since when?" Dorothy's surprise was genuine. In her memory, she was always the girl with her head down, lost in books or resting with her eyes closed, even if she wasn't tackling her homework head-on.
Not even the school's heartthrob, Everett, could distract her with his charms.
"Back then, I didn't know you had a crush on me. I just... looked," she admitted, her voice low, betraying a hint of something unspoken.
Dorothy always steered clear of drama.
The other girls were practically throwing themselves at Everett, their infatuation bordering on obsession. Being Everett's desk mate already put her in the crosshairs of many envious glares. Getting caught gazing at him? That would've been social suicide.
Schoolyard drama was the last thing she needed.
"What if I had made a move on you back then?" Everett's question hung in the air, charged with a what-if that made Dorothy's heart skip a beat.This belongs © NôvelDra/ma.Org.
"That would've been a nightmare," she replied, half-joking. "You had a fan club even in middle school. Remember the 'Chase Everett League'? I overheard some girls planning their next banner for your basketball game in the restroom."
Everett furrowed his brows, trying to recall such a time, "I don't remember that."
"You wouldn't," Dorothy teased. "You were too busy being the star athlete, with your own cheering section of girls and boys alike. You were used to it."
"Guess being the heartthrob has its perks," Everett grinned, ruffling her hair affectionately. "But now, I'm your guy."
Dorothy quickly waved him off, a playful glint in her eye, "Hold your horses, Mr. Lopez. We're not official yet. Keep your distance."
""
"You're not a fan of the boyfriend title?"
Everett nodded, "I am, until it's time to make it official. Then, it's a different story."
Dorothy leaned in, whispering, "How about ex-boyfriend then? That's another title for you."
"Let's stick with boyfriend," Everett decided quickly.
...
Meanwhile, Karen had sent
had sent Dorothy
several messages on
increasingly anxious
à unread message.
Jeffrey, cradling their child, tried to reassure her, "Why the rush? Maybe she's having a moment with Everett."
"I'm worried about her health! Quincy's illness isn't something to take lightly. It could turn deadly."
"Relax, with Everett by her side, Dorothy's invincible. If anything happened to her, Everett would lose his mind." Jeffrey wasn't exaggerating. At least, that's how he saw it.
Karen sighed, taking their daughter into her arms, "Is there anything we can do to help?"
"You're already doing it. Teaching Dorothy to stand up for herself was a brilliant move."
"I just wish I could see her in action. Her cool demeanor breaking into a fit of rage? That's something."
Karen's response was swift and
without mercy, a kick sent Jeffrey's way, "Wishing for my downfall, eh? If you're tired of my fiery spirit, Mr. Turner, feel free to look elsewhere!"
Jeffrey's fear was palpable, "My dear, I was wrong! I don't want anyone else, just you!"
"I thought you wanted a ladylike wife, not a spitfire."
fire
"What's the fun in that? I'll kiss, an apology and a promise all in
one.
Ps and all." Jeffrey leaned in for a
Just as Karen was about to speak, a wave of nausea hit her...