Chapter 14

Gabriella

I lazily scrolled through my phone, grateful that Martin had taken the time to keep me entertained with goofy pictures of himself, showcasing his killer smile and those cheekbones I couldn't help but envy.

The café wasn't too crowded in the evening, which meant less work for me and the same pay. Fortunately, my shift was ending in less than an hour. Just as I was about to put my phone down to attend to a supposed customer, I quickly dropped it, almost smashing the device. It wasn't just any customer; it was Gabrielle, dressed in formal attire, wearing a small, somewhat weary smile. She honestly looked drained.

"Gabrielle? What are you doing here?" I asked as I hurried over to her. She pulled me into a quick hug, and by quick, I mean a whole 1.2 seconds, which was probably the longest genuine hug I'd ever received from her. But it was a start.

"I was driving by and decided to say hello to my little sister. How have