The Officer's Runaway Wife & Secret Son novel Chapter 69

Simon rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "The Ice Prince? Sounds like a challenge. Clara, if I go offer a toast, do you think I can get a follow on his socials?"

Clara glanced at him. "Save it. Your boyfriend would cry."

"Is that the same?" Simon was still eager. "Someone like that... just having them in your contacts makes you happy. I'm going to test the waters."

"Don't drown."

As they spoke, the phone on the table buzzed, the screen lighting up with a video call request.

Several people around them saw it. Emily snarked, "Checking in on you pretty tight."

Clara wiped her hands and picked up the phone. "It's too loud here. I'll take this outside."

She got up and walked out.

The end of the corridor was quiet. Clara leaned against the windowsill and accepted the video call.

The screen shook for a moment before Rhys's face appeared.

The background was a hotel room. He seemed to have just returned as well, still dressed in a suit and tie.

"What are you doing?"

"Class reunion."

Rhys frowned when he saw her outfit.

"You're wearing so little? Are you cold?"

"It's hot. If you have something to say, say it. If not, I'm hanging up."

"Did you drink?"

"Drank some juice."

Rhys moved the phone closer, scrutinizing her face carefully.

"You look okay. Does your stomach hurt?"

"It doesn't hurt," Clara lied. "I've been taking the medicine."

"Good." Rhys nodded. "Don't stay out too late. Have Simon drive you home when it's over."

"Mhm."

"Much better."

"I heard you say you were drinking juice?"

Clara realized he had overheard her call. She didn't hide it. "Just dealing with the husband checking in. I just said whatever."

Noah didn't pry. He nodded. "Don't drink cold things. The temperature dropped outside, go home early."

"Clara!" Simon peeked his head out of the room furtively. Upon seeing Noah, his eyes lit up, and he trotted over. "Who's this? Aren't you going to introduce us?"

He stared at Noah, his gaze blunt and appraising.

Clara, resigned, had to act as the middleman. "This is Noah, Dr. Carter. This is my friend, Simon."

"Dr. Carter, I've heard so much about you!" Simon extended his hand, grinning brightly. "Listening to that crowd inside make you sound god-like, but seeing you in person... the reality beats the rumors."

Noah reached out and shook his hand. "You're too kind."

Their hands touched. Simon wanted to hold on a bit longer, but Noah had already politely and distantly withdrawn his hand.

"Which department are you in, Dr. Carter? Can I come to you if I'm sick in the future?" Simon wasn't giving up. "Mind if we follow each other on socials so I can contact you?"