Chapter 249

My phone rang the instant I had that thought. This was incredibly awkward.

Cole's mouth twisted into a mocking smile. "Guess you don't trust me, huh? So why bother?"

I had no good answer. He took a step back. "Let's just pretend we don't know each other from now on."

He got into his car and drove off, leaving me in the wind, my hair whipping around my face. Wow. His mood swings were astonishing. Ten minutes ago, he was professing his feelings, and now, after one phone call, he's throwing a tantrum?

Perhaps it was for the best. At least I wouldn't have to worry about him pursuing me or causing more drama.

As Cole drove away, I looked again at the locked gates, wondering who Thorsten's important guest could be. Could it be Matthew?

The thought made me hesitate before calling Lindey.

"Rea! I was just about to call you!" she exclaimed, cutting me off.

I managed, "Everything okay?"

"Let's have lunch at Signature Soirée. Be there by eleven." Her tone brooked no refusal.

I didn't immediately object. "Is Matthew coming too?"

"No," Lindey said, unconcerned. "He's out and won't be back until later this afternoon."

Out all day? That was unusual. Since handing the company to Jace, Matthew rarely went out. "Did he go far?" I pressed.

"Nah, just meeting an old friend. They usually have tea and play chess," she said.

My grip tightened on the phone. I'd guessed right—Matthew was Thorsten's guest. I knew they were close, but this was getting complicated, especially with the contract my father left behind.

"Rea, did you need something from Matthew?" Lindey asked, bringing me back to the present.

"No, I just assumed it was a family lunch."

"What family lunch?" Lindey scoffed. "We haven't had one since you left."

I knew she didn't intend to blame me, but it still felt like my fault. I couldn't argue, but I wouldn't apologize either. I hadn't done anything wrong.

"You've got to come," Lindey sighed. "I haven't seen you in ages, and there's so much to talk about."

I felt trapped. If I went, she'd likely gossip about Jace and Tanya. As his ex, I wasn't getting involved. And I definitely didn't want to be her emotional punching bag.

"I'm not sure I can make it," I said, declining again.

"Are you planning to cut ties with me completely? Since you left, I haven't slept properly or eaten a decent meal. Today, can't you just be my daughter and have lunch with me?" Lindey's guilt trip was intense.

How could I refuse that? I sighed, feeling cornered. "I'll do my best to come."

"I'll be waiting," she said, leaving no room for retreat.

Chapter 250