Forbidden Heat novel Chapter 256

“Of course. I’m happy to meet you. It’s been a pretty long while…” I replied as I took my seat opposite her.

“Should we order?” She asked sweetly and I nodded.

She pressed the button to call the waitress and soon our orders were being taken. Truth be told, I had no interest in the little afternoon tea treats or the food, I just wanted to know why she called me out here today...and if there was something wrong with Zak.

Annie and I made small talk until our food arrived. I sipped on my peppermint tea as I wondered when she would just get to it. Perhaps, I should just ask her?

“Annie. It’s rare for you to meet up with me, is something the matter?” I asked, sounding concerned.

I watched as she placed her teacup down and looked straight at me.

“Are you aware of how Zak feels about you?” Annie asked, catching me off guard.

I did not expect that question from her. I narrowed my eyes suspiciously at her.

“It depends on what you’re referring to,” I replied curtly.

“Zak is still very much in love with you,” Annie said, unable to hide the pain in her voice and her expression.

It wasn’t like Zak professes his love to me on a daily basis. Since I’ve been married, I’ve been devoted to my husband and my children and Zak has been devoted to building his own life. Now, whether or not that life of his included this pretty little lady in front of me or not, I didn’t quite know.

“I see…” I said, not knowing what else to say.

I would be lying if I told her that I was surprised because I wasn’t surprised. It’s unfortunate, but I knew that Zak’s feelings for me wouldn’t change that easily.

“How you been…in touch with my husband?” Annie asked, and I didn’t miss the hint in her words.

“Yes, I have. We’re good friends and we go way back. However, if you’re meaning to ask if Zak and I are involved in an affair, then the answer is a firm no,” I replied, trying to not take any offense in her words.

“I was just wondering…” Annie began but I had to stop her before she went any further.

“I understand your concern; however, I would appreciate it if you didn’t say anything that would be disrespectful to my husband and my family,” I said, bluntly.

I sympathized with her; I truly do. However, the blunt truth was that it wasn’t my fault that she couldn’t make Zak fall in love with her after being married to him for five years. Period.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. To be honest, I called you out here to get your help…” Annie said with a sigh.

“My help?” I asked, curiously. I honestly couldn’t see how I could be of help.

“Yes. Tell me, how can I make Zak fall in love with me?” Annie asked desperately.

Why is she asking me this now? It’s been five years…

Not that it made a difference. I had no idea why Zak fell in love with me in the first place. There was nothing that I could have advised her back then and there is nothing that I can tell her now either.