Chapter 34

I didn’t expect Macy to play matchmaker for me. Hayden’s cold, indifferent face flashed in my mind. Recalling his direct refusal to switch rooms, a playful mood overtook me, and I responded with a quick, “Sure.” It was a casual remark; I didn't take it seriously.

After breakfast, I borrowed a bicycle from Macy and spent the day cycling around Chiverton. Returning to the rented house that evening, I carried a sketchbook in addition to what I’d had that morning. I loved drawing. Before my parents passed away, they’d enrolled me in dance, drawing, and even harp lessons. These ended with their passing, but drawing continued; it was simple—all I needed was pen and paper. Today, besides exploring, I finished a drawing of Chiverton. My parents had always wanted to return; since they couldn’t, I’d paint it and burn it as an offering.

“Keira, why are you just getting back?” Macy approached, giving me a knowing look.

I was puzzled. “Macy…”

“Hayden is back. I already talked to him,” she said, nodding toward Hayden’s room.

I remembered her matchmaking plan and chuckled. “You actually told him? I was just kidding.”

“You shouldn’t joke about such things,” she replied seriously. “Anyway, I told him.”

“And what did he say?” I asked casually as I parked the bike.

“He said he wants to talk to you in person,” Macy said, nudging me with an anticipatory smile. “There’s a chance.”

I laughed. “If it works out, I’ll treat you to a wedding feast.”

“Deal,” she replied earnestly. “Now go freshen up. I’ll tell Hayden to get ready too.”

“There’s no need. It’s not like we haven’t seen each other before,” I said, thinking of our unguarded moments together.

“That’s different. This is a formal meeting,” she insisted, making me laugh.

I had to admit, I was genuinely happy here. The freedom to wander, sketch, and speak my mind felt liberating.

Despite Macy’s insistence, I went to my room and flopped onto the bed without freshening up. I pulled out my phone, buzzing with notifications. My heart sank when I saw that Demi had sent several messages. I’d hoped for a message from Jace. Not that I wanted an apology or reconciliation, but his lack of concern about my disappearance felt devastating. Even if he only saw me as family or a colleague, shouldn't he have been worried enough to ask? Wayne had called from another country after hearing the news. But Jace hadn’t.

Demi’s messages read:

[Keira, is it true you didn’t get the marriage license with Mr. Johnston? What happened?] [People at the company are saying Mr. Johnston was cheating on you. Was it the woman he was hugging that day?] [Keira, where are you?] [Did you run away? Don’t do anything rash. There are plenty of men out there.] [Keira, please respond. I’m really worried about you.]

Seeing her flurry of messages and the crying emoji, I replied: [Don’t worry. Don’t overthink or speculate. Just focus on work. I’ll be back soon.]

Demi replied instantly: [What happened with you and Mr. Johnston?]

I responded with two words: [Don’t worry.]

As Demi’s status showed she was typing, Macy called from outside, “Keira, are you ready?”