From Ashes of Scandals to His Embrace novel Chapter 342

“No… I didn’t run into anyone. I’m just not feeling well all of a sudden. I don’t want to eat here anymore. Let’s just head back, okay?”

Laura grabbed her bag and hurried for the door. Gus followed behind her, moving with a calm that felt almost cold. In his mind, he couldn’t help but think Laura just wasn’t good enough for this crowd.

He’d been taking her to fancy hotels and upscale restaurants all week, hoping she’d pick up on something new. But instead of growing or learning, she’d just gotten more arrogant. That was it.

Their group stepped out of the private dining room right as Laurinda was coming out of the restroom. This time, it wasn’t just Laura who looked rattled. Gus’s face went pale too.

He kept his head down as they passed Laurinda, not daring to meet her eyes. Nash hadn’t come home last night. Gus was pretty sure he knew why.

The weight of Laurinda’s warning felt heavier than ever.

As soon as they got outside, everyone seemed to breathe easier. Laura leaned against the wall, her legs shaky. She’d been terrified Laurinda would call her out in front of everyone.

Gus looked at her with clear annoyance. Suddenly, a thought hit him. Maybe Laurinda wanted Laura to go to Stonehaven on purpose. But why? He couldn’t figure it out.

Back at the table, Laurinda was in a great mood. She reached out to take Hanson from Abigail, making him giggle with a few playful bounces.

The others paused, surprised at how natural Laurinda looked holding a baby.

“I had no idea you were so good with kids, Laurinda.”

Laurinda gently patted Hanson’s back. His chubby little body nestled against her, and it brought back a rush of old memories.

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