Chapter 330
Chapter 330:
A gentle heat unfurled through her, warmer than the steam still clinging to her skin.
They rode the elevator up to the second-floor restaurant, and the moment they stepped inside, she spotted Jessie and Bernie seated by the window, leaning close as they talked and picked at their food.
A tight crease formed between Gracie’s brows, her expression sharpening.
Love clung to Jessie’s expression no matter how she tried to bury it. Even when she kept her distance, her eyes exposed every hidden feeling.
“Any idea who the man with Jessie is?” Gracie asked, her voice low.
“No clue. He’s not from any circle I know,” Brayden answered, studying her face. “Is something off about him p>
Before Gracie could speak, Bernie caught sight of them and lifted an eager hand. “Gracie! Mr. Stanley p>
Brayden stole a quick look at Gracie and asked, “Do you want to head over? We can just eat on our own if you prefer p>
A cool resolve sharpened her expression. “We’re going. I want to see what he thinks he’s doing.” She strode ahead without waiting.
Jessie immediately dropped her gaze, guilt flickering across her face.
Gracie slid into the empty seat with effortless poise. “So, were you two planning a little breakfast date p>
Jessie rushed to explain, her voice tight. “No, not at all. We bumped into each other on a morning jog and figured we’d grab a bite together p>
Bernie offered an easy smile, leaning back in his chair. “Back in high school, Jessie despised running. Hard to believe she’s into morning workouts now. Turns out we’ve got a few shared hobbies after all p>
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He nudged his plate toward Jessie, replacing her portion with his own cut steak. “Maybe we should schedule jogs or weekend hikes together p>
“Sure,” Jessie murmured, her cheeks blooming pink.
Watching them, Gracie felt her chest tighten.
Steering destiny off its path was proving nearly impossible; even with foreknowledge, the same threads kept weaving themselves back together.
Jessie risked a quick glance at Gracie, only to dart her gaze away the moment their eyes met.
A quiet breath eased out of Gracie, betraying the tension she carried. “Jessie, I had no idea you were suddenly into running p>
“It’s… it’s something new,” Jessie stammered, fingers clenching around her utensils. “The doctor said my health’s a bit weak, so I should move more p>
“You really should build up some strength,” Bernie cut in, his tone warm and firm. “I’ll make sure you stay on track p>
A faint laugh slipped from Gracie. “Are you sure? With your workload, do you honestly have time to monitor Jessie’s training p>