When Love Finds Its Way Back (Cassienne and Dreston) novel Chapter 69

Chapter Sixty–Nine: Why Was Garry With Cassienne?

Cassienne had been buried in work the moment she stepped into her office.

She hadn’t stepped out even once.

Her door remained closed, her attention locked on the screen in front of her, fingers moving steadily as she worked through files, approvals, and schedules. She wasn’t the only one under pressure–everyone in the department was just as busy.

She had made sure of that.

Three new products had received her approval that morning, and she had given immediate instructions for their development and rollout. There was no delay, no hesitation. Everyone knew exactly what they were expected to do.

During her time at Coralreach, Cassienne had learned an important lesson: when the development team worked together instead of in fragments, progress was faster and cleaner. Communication flowed better, mistakes were caught early, and deadlines were met without chaos.

She intended to apply the same system here.

And today was the beginning of it.

That decision alone was enough to keep the entire floor moving at full speed–including her.

Cassienne released a quiet sigh and brushed a few loose strands of hair back from her face, forcing herself to stay focused. Her stomach gave a subtle reminder that it was already past lunchtime.

But she ignored it.

Food could wait. Work could not.

Just as she pushed the thought away and returned her eyes to the screen, a knock sounded on her office door.

Without looking up, she replied calmly, “Come in, please.”

The door opened with a soft click and closed almost immediately. The sound of slow, deliberate footsteps

followed.

Something about it made her pause.

Cassienne lifted her gaze.

The moment her eyes landed on the man standing in front of her desk, her hands left the keyboard at once. She rose to her feet, shock flickering across her face before she could hide it.

“Garry Richardson?”

It was a question.

The handsome, fair–skinned man standing before her met her gaze without hesitation. He had striking blue eyes and a tall, lean frame that was well built without being bulky. His navy–blue trousers sat perfectly on his hips, and his sky–blue shirt was neatly tucked in, giving him the polished look of someone who paid attention to details.

His blue eyes stayed fixed on Cassienne’s bright honey–colored ones as his lips curved into a smile. The dimple on his cheek deepened, making him look effortlessly charming. 1

“I thought it would be impolite if I didn’t stop to say hi,” he said lightly.

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Wonderful.

That was exactly what Cassienne thought–sarcastically. Since when did any of her old friends suddenly care about politeness? She scoffed inwardly, barely stopping herself from rolling her eyes.

What a liar.

“Well,” she replied calmly, her brows lifting slightly, “I wasn’t expecting someone like you to think someone like me was worthy of your time.”

Garry chuckled and stepped closer. Without asking, he pulled out a chair and sat down, completely at ease.

Cassienne allowed herself a small smile, though it didn’t reach her eyes. She slowly returned to her seat. 1

“Someone like me,” he repeated, amused. “We’re friends, Cassienne.”

“We were,” she corrected gently but firmly. “Past tense. Remember?”

Garry laughed again. This time, there was something almost nostalgic in his expression, as though he didn’t quite believe her words.

“You know,” he said, studying her, “I like you this way. You remind me of how you were when we were teenagers.”

The words struck a nerve.

They stirred memories Cassienne had long buried–days when life was simpler, happier, before one person came and shattered everything she had built.

She had sealed those memories deep within herself.

She wasn’t going to let anyone dig them up.

So she didn’t dwell on his comment. Instead, she smoothly shifted the conversation, burying the past where it belonged.

“How’s the wine business?” she asked.

Garry blinked, clearly surprised. “You remembered?” His expression softened. “It’s doing well. Very well. I hope you’ll visit someday. I’d love to show you around the vineyard.”

Cassienne smiled, this time more genuine. “Of course. When I’m less busy.”

His eyes lingered on her, filled with quiet admiration. “Congratulations,” he said sincerely. “I’m happy for everything you’ve achieved.”

“Thank you, Garry,” she replied.

He glanced at his wristwatch. “If you don’t mind, can I take you out for lunch?”

Cassienne checked the wall clock in her office.

“Maybe the company cafeteria,” she said after a moment. “I have less than an hour.”

“Perfect for me,” he said, standing. “Shall we?”

She nodded with a smile. “Just a moment.”

Cassienne shut down her computer, straightened the items on her desk, then picked up her phone and suit jacket.

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The Auralink Systems executive cafeteria was alive with quiet conversations. Senior staff sat in small groups, eating, chatting, and unwinding. Some had already finished their meals and were lingering over discussions, while others had just arrived.

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