The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 378

However, the joy on Ruby's face flickered and vanished just as quickly. She looked deeply distressed.

"But Aaron, I'm afraid if Jamie hears about how my sister lived back then, he'll just get even angrier..."

"Why?" Aaron asked.

Ruby stammered, "Because... because my mom was never very nice to Suzie. Honestly, she's terrible to me now, too. She only loves her precious son. She's incredibly biased."

Aaron went with the flow. "That won't be a problem. Just don't go into the dark details. Pick out the fun, interesting stories to share. Even just hearing those, I'm sure Mr. Baylor will be thrilled. By the way, Miss Ruby, give it to me straight—was your sister adopted?"

Aaron went straight for the kill. He didn't even need her to give a concrete "yes"; he already knew the truth. All he needed was to confirm the micro-expressions on her face. With Ruby's intellect, even if she didn't say the words aloud, she absolutely lacked the ability to hide her internal panic.

Sure enough, Aaron's instinct was dead on.

Hearing the direct question, Ruby's brow pinched tightly together, her eyes darting everywhere but at him.

Finally, she stuttered, "Aaron, actually, I don't know anything about my sister's situation. You... you should just ask my mom. My mom and dad know everything."

Aaron waved a hand casually, playing it off completely. "No worries. It really doesn't matter anyway, it just naturally came up in conversation. I won't ask anymore. When Mr. Baylor has some free time, I'll suggest he meets with you."

"Yes! Awesome, thank you so much, Aaron."

...

Suzie's intuition warned her that Alice wasn't here to catch up, and whatever she had to say wouldn't be pleasant.

"It's been a while. You're looking more beautiful than ever, Suzie," Alice said softly, elegantly stirring her coffee.

Suzie maintained a bright smile, trying to force the same relaxed dynamic they used to share. "You're too kind, Alice. I can't compare to your radiant glow. Oh, this is your favorite scent. I brought it for you."

Suzie placed the bottle of high-end, hard-to-find perfume on the table.

Alice merely gave the box a cursory, indifferent glance and didn't respond.

Hoping to cut through the awkward tension, Suzie got straight to the point.