The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 371

Suzie lied smoothly, "Yeah, a new client booked a shoot. We went over the details, so it took a little longer."

Suzie noticed Hayden's furrowed brow. "What happened?"

Hayden walked in. "I knew you were busy, so I had dinner with the little ones. During dinner, Zoey got a nosebleed. It was only a little, but it still worried me..."

Suzie replied gently, "The summer heat is rough on kids. Zoey isn't as robust as the boys. I'll pick up some natural supplements tomorrow to help balance her system."

Hayden nodded. "Make sure you do. It hasn't been long since her last nosebleed. If it happens again, we'll take her to the best hospital for a full workup."

Suzie agreed. "Alright. It's almost time for their annual physicals anyway. I'll let you know once I've scheduled it. Have a seat, I'll go check on the kids."

Suzie went into the children's bedroom.

Hayden turned to Mia, his expression serious. He lowered his voice. "What business were you two discussing after work? And where?"

Mia's back stiffened. She hated being caught in the middle. But, even though Hayden was her boss, her loyalty lay with Suzie.

Mia feigned casually, "Just like Suzie said, a new client for a shoot. We met at Bruce Café on Center Street."

Hayden frowned, a hint of suspicion in his voice. "Mia, you'd better not be lying."

Suzie sipped her juice, pondering Hayden's words and demeanor. Was Alice really not back yet? Hayden genuinely seemed clueless. Perhaps the woman she saw stepping out of the elevator at the Feast of Dreams restaurant wasn't Alice after all? Had she been mistaken?

Pushing the thought aside, Suzie said, "I want to pick out a gift for Alice tomorrow, but I'm not sure what she'd like. Any recommendations?"

Hayden waved a hand. "No need. I've already got the gifts sorted. We'll take the little ones out for a barbecue. Alice has missed them."

Suzie smiled faintly. "Alright then. But the barbecue is on me. Don't even try to argue."

"Deal. It's getting late, I should head back. You two get some rest." Hayden stood up and walked toward the door.