?Chapter 1195:

    Their idea of getting married had blossomed during a time when everything felt perfect. Freya gave her sister’s hair a gentle tousle. Jarrett made a wonderful boyfriend, but marriage was apletely different world. All she wanted was for both of them to step into marriage because they truly meant it, not because the moment felt sweet.

    During the next several days, Freya kept her distance from Ellis. No real reason drove her to do so, except for how she had sidestepped their conversation by ending thest call.

    One afternoon, just as Freya was getting ready to leave work, her phone rang.

    Kendra’s voice came through. “Freya, there’s something I’d like to talk about.”

    “Of course. What’s on your mind?”

    Kendra hesitated, searching for the right words. Speaking bluntly might put Freya in an awkward spot, and she knew it.

    Picking up on the hesitation, Freya decided to get straight to the point. “Were you hoping to spend a few days at my ce?”

    “Would you mind?”

    “I’d love that.”

    “Really?!” Kendra’s excitement was infectious, like a child given a treat. “Of course.” If her own mother were still alive, Freya imagined she’d be just as enthusiastic. The thought brought a pang.

    Thatst conversation with Ellis had lingered in her mind. It hit her—Hugh’s affection for Anita wasn’t just routine. It was genuine. Even Anita had moments of girlish joy around him, and no one could pretend like that for long if it was only habit.

    “So, when do you want toe by? I can drive over and pick you up,” Freya offered, shaking off her reflections.

    “That’s not necessary,” Kendra said, not wanting Freya to go out of her way. “I’ll have Ellis bring me instead.”

    Freya went quiet for a second.

    “I don’t mind youing out here,” a new voice joined the line, smooth and rxed. Ellis had taken the phone. “We’ll be here waiting.”

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    “Don’t give him attention. He’s just messing around.”

    “Not at all.”

    Kendra gave him a yful scolding, then assured Freya she didn’t need to worry about the drive.

    Once the call ended, Freya let out a tired sigh and rubbed her forehead. The conversation had made it clear—she was in for it. Ellis’s tone alone told her he hadn’t let go of what happened before.

    After pulling herself together, she grabbed her car keys and set out for the vi she and Ellis shared.

    It was past three when Ellis showed up with Kendra. As soon as Kendra stepped out, she greeted Freya with warmth and enthusiasm. Freya usually took time to getfortable around people, but Kendra’s lively presence put her at ease. Conversation came easily, and the two found themselves enjoying each other’spany from the start.

    “Freya, I want to spend a few days alone with you,” Kendra said after some light conversation, cutting straight to the point. Her genuine curiosity was evident—she truly wanted to know every detail of Freya’s childhood. “Shall we kick Ellis out for a bit?”

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