It wasn't until the evening that I found out Zora had gone to look after Hazel.
After dinner, Hannah, in one of her whimsical moods, dragged me out for a walk. Stepping out of the house, we headed towards the Wood Manor. On the way, Hannah blinked at me and asked, "Do you know who's been taking care of Hazel at the hospital, now that the poor girl Jessica is finally allowed to go home?"
I immediately shot back, "Who?"
At the same time, my mind raced – it couldn't be Camilla, could it?
With Jerome away, it would be typical for Camilla to step in. She was the epitome of diligence and dedication, after all.
I blurted out, "It's not Camilla, is it?"
But Hannah shook her head instantly. Somewhat puzzled, I looked at her as she chuckled, "Zora!"
I burst into laughter, "Oh my word... She is truly a loyal hound, isn't she? Born to be a nanny or a maid - it's just perfect... I thought they would've sent Camilla!"
Hannah joined in the laughter, teasing me, "Surprised? Shocked?"
I nodded vigorously, "Totally surprised and absolutely shocked. Looks like Jaylan is eternally grateful to Zora. That's true love. Always available without a word of grumble!"
We continued chatting and laughing as we approached the Wood Manor. I introduced Hannah to the grandeur of the estate, not forgetting to poke fun at Zora along the way. But as we entered, I was taken aback. There was Ronan with Logan, Larkin, and a few other young guys I didn't recognize.
It seemed like they were in a meeting, and they all turned to look at us as we came in.
Feeling a bit awkward, I quickly asked, "Are we interrupting? Please, don't let us hold you up!"
As I tried to drag Hannah back out, Logan's voice stopped me, "Hold on... Allie!"
I stopped dead in my tracks and looked back at him.
"Come on in... What's the rush? We're not monsters, you know!" he beckoned invitingly.
He teased with a mischievous grin, "Better to be just on time than early. Here you are, delivered right to us, saving us the trouble of finding you!"
I turned back around, "Alright! I'm not in a hurry. I just didn't want to interrupt anything."
Ronan gestured, and someone brought over a chair for me.
I wondered when this place had become Ronan's hangout. After playing the role of Bennett all day, he must've been tired; now he seemed more laid-back.
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