The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 208

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“Jamie might really dislike people bringing phones into Baylor Manor,” Suzie whispered urgently. “We still have that old basket with the false bottom, right? Tomorrow, pretend you’re bringing over some homemade preserves, but hide Ruby’s phone inside the hidden compartment.”

Fearing Margaret’s carelessness, she added, “If I take Ruby out in the next few days and we meet a nice guy for her, how is she supposed to exchange numbers without a phone? Besides, people will make fun of her.”

Margaret’s eyes darted around for a moment before she quickly agreed. “You’re right, you’re right. What time should I bring it tomorrow?”

Suzie paused to think. “Jamie probably has a morning meeting at his company tomorrow. Come around eight-thirty, while he’s busy. Just hand the basket to the butler casually. And remember to turn the phone off and wrap it well.”

Margaret nodded without question, and Suzie finally felt a sense of relief. The hidden compartment in that old basket was so well-concealed; the butler wouldn’t inspect it like he was searching for state secrets.

After her family had left, Suzie took Ruby upstairs.

Ruby wandered around Suzie’s bedroom, her voice filled with awe. “Suzie, you are so lucky. This bedroom, with the balcony, is almost as big as our entire house.”

Suzie smiled faintly. “You’ll be lucky too one day.”

Ruby stopped and sat down next to Suzie, linking her arm through hers. “I used to think Jamie was one of those super-cold types, but after meeting him, he seems so considerate toward you. He’s practically the perfect, attentive man. Suzie, I’m so jealous.”

As she spoke, Ruby’s eyes once again scanned the room. The massive floor-to-ceiling windows overlooked a lush green courtyard, and the open-air balcony was larger than all five of their balconies at home combined. Inside, everything from the furniture to the decor screamed of immense wealth.