No More Waiting, She Chooses Love novel Chapter 504

Jacqueline muttered under her breath, "It's raining outside. Why not talk here?" only to receive a sharp glance from Herschel.

"Mom, didn't you say something about baking apple pies? I'll help you with that," Dustin said, jumping in to defuse the tension that had briefly flared between his mother and Herschel.

I didn't say a word, just got up and followed Conrad outside.

He waited for me at the door, umbrella in hand.

Honestly, whatever private things he wanted to discuss could have been said in any room of the house. We didn't need to step out into the rain for a heart-to-heart.

But he had his reasons, I suppose, and I didn't ask.

"Aren't you cold? Do you want me to grab you a jacket?" Conrad asked, ever so considerate.

I had to admit, he seemed more attentive than before, more... boyfriend material, if you will. But it was too late.

"No need," I said, taking the umbrella from his hand and stepping into the rain.

Conrad didn't protest, simply joining me in the downpour. "Do you remember the last time we walked in the rain like this?" he asked.

I did. It was a year ago, during a particularly fierce storm that had led to flash floods in the city. Many areas were underwater, making it impossible for cars to navigate.

I suggested we walk home, but Conrad, always going overboard, wanted to call a helicopter.

I scoffed at the idea, saying, "Sure, you can summon a helicopter, but what about the rest of the staff? As the company's CEO, if you just up and leave by air, what kind of message does that send?"

Conrad, duly chastised, didn't call the helicopter. Instead, he walked home with everyone else, umbrella in hand.

We walked together, lifting our pants legs at first to avoid getting wet, but in such rain, it was a futile effort.