The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 640

640 /640

Suzie tried to steady her breathing, anxiety still lacing her words. "Do Mom and Dad know? How are they taking it?"

Hayden patted her shoulder reassuringly. "Don't worry about them. I explained everything to them before I rushed over here. Dad already has his own people investigating it, too."

No sooner had Hayden finished speaking than Suzie's phone began ringing off the hook. First it was Stella, then Oliver, followed by Chester, Mia, and Sienna.

Every single person in Suzie's inner circle had seemingly caught the trending article right before bed, and they all called in a panic to make sure she was okay.

Echoing Hayden's advice, they all urged her to stay locked inside for the next few days, promising to drop off groceries and supplies so she wouldn't have to step foot out the door.

After fielding the barrage of calls, Suzie curled up on the sofa, utterly exhausted. Hayden went into the kitchen and made her a warm drink.

Sitting back down, he couldn't help but ask, "Did Jamie call?"

"No," Suzie replied, her voice flat and perfectly calm.

Whether he cared or not didn't matter. She had her friends and family; that was more than enough.

He must have finally listened to what she told him that night by the lake. Because ever since that evening, Jamie hadn't called, hadn't texted, and hadn't shown up at her studio.

Though Suzie sounded completely indifferent, Hayden felt the need to offer a slight defense. "He's constantly working. He doesn't even use social media, so he probably just hasn't seen it yet."

"Hayden, I really don't care," Suzie said lightly, shifting the topic. "I'll do what you said and keep the kids home. I'll have Mia hold a video call with the staff tomorrow to announce we're closing the studio for a few days. I saw comments urging people to go vandalize Iris Dream Studio, and the last thing I want is for any of my team to get hurt."

Hayden nodded in agreement. "Playing it safe is the smartest move. Once we find out who did this, you can issue a public statement clearing your name, and this will all blow over. Try not to stress too much. Tell the nannies to stay inside, too. If you need anything, I'll bring it over."