Zoe was speechless.
Garrett worried that Yara's rigid tone would hurt his parents' feelings.
"Dad, Mom, Yara grew up in a different environment and her line of work is unique. You guys..."
But Mr. Kendall Sr. and Sylvia didn't mind at all.
"It's all part of the job. Yara's dedication is admirable," Mr. Kendall Sr. praised genuinely.
Yara merely spared him a passing glance before locking her gaze back onto Zoe.
At first, Yara's intense scrutiny made Zoe uncomfortable. She tried to tell her there was no need to shadow her so closely, assuring her she would be fine.
But Yara refused, reiterating that it was her job.
Over time, Zoe grew indifferent to it.
When Sylvia announced that dinner was ready, Yara refused to take a seat.
"I'll just stand by."
Sylvia wouldn't hear of it. "Yara, you are a guest in our home. Even if it's your job, as your hosts, we have to make sure you're fed. You can't work on an empty stomach. Come eat with us."
Yara shook her head. "I am on the clock. I will eat after you are all finished."
"Officer Quinn," Zoe urged gently, "we are equals. There is truly no need for this. You're not a servant I hired. Please, sit down and eat."
Zoe had already noticed Garrett shifting restlessly in his chair.
He looked as if he desperately wanted to invite Yara himself but was terrified of being rejected.
"No need. Please, enjoy your meal. I will step outside." Yara spun on her heel and walked away.
An awkward silence fell over the room.
The moment she left, Garrett could no longer sit still. He slammed his silverware down and hurried after her.
Even little Lily noticed that Uncle Garrett was acting strange.
She had spent the last half-year bonding with Zoe, genuinely loving little Ian and Lily as her own grandchildren. What was she supposed to do now?
"Zoe, please don't take it to heart," Sylvia said gently. "Garrett is just eager to help everyone. It doesn't necessarily mean he has feelings for Officer Quinn."
Arthur's face darkened instantly.
"Feelings for who? Is Garrett abandoning his commitments to chase another woman?"
Realizing that both Arthur and the older couple had wildly misunderstood the situation, Zoe quickly chimed in.
"Sylvia, Mr. Kendall, Arthur, I think you've misunderstood. Garrett truly sees me as a sister, you've all seen that. But he really does seem to have a soft spot for Officer Quinn."
Arthur slammed his hand on the table. "No! Absolutely not! I forbid it! He cannot marry anyone other than Zoe! If he does, how will Beatrice ever fall into my trap?"
Zoe stared at him in disbelief.
So, her beloved grandfather was just using her as bait all along.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: I Forgot I Ever Loved You (Zoe and Hayden)
You didn't upload chapter between 575 and 580...
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Thank u for uploading this book❤️. We r really grateful 🙏...
Can u please upload 20 chapter tomorrow 🙏 🫣 ....
Can u upload more chapter please 🙏...
Zoe is amazing and witty . I love the way she gives back to Hayden...
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Please update more chapter 🙏 I am loving this novel so much. literally obsessed...
Please update more chapter 🙏...