Chapter 27

Later that day, Noelle went to work at the restaurant with a troubled mind. The unwelcomed memories of Adrian gnawed at her, refusing to grant her peace. Still, she pushed through, forcing herself to focus on her tasks. At least work kept her hands busy, even if her thoughts wandered.

She sighed as she walked back to the counter, grabbing a glass pitcher filled with iced tea.

Evelyn, who had been watching her closely, frowned. “What’s wrong?” she asked with concern evident in her tone. Noelle had been sighing more than usual, as if carrying a burden too heavy to bear.

“Nothing...” Noelle forced a small smile. “I just remembered something I really didn’t wanna think about.”

Before Evelyn could press further, a customer called for a server. Noelle took it as an escape and turned swiftly, heading toward their table, eager to drown herself in work before her thoughts swallowed her whole.

As Noelle approached the table, she quickly adjusted her expression, m