Chapter 71

When the noon military training finally wrapped, Emma walked into the dessert shop and immediately spotted Cassandra sitting by the window.

Seeing she’d come alone, Cassandra asked, “Where’s your friend?”

“Clara’s got something going on, not joining us for lunch,” Emma replied casually.

“This is for you.” Cassandra handed her a cute, delicate bag.

It was probably to thank her for saving the day when she smashed the wrong phone in that heated moment earlier. Or maybe just a small apology.

“Why’re you suddenly giving me a gift?” Emma said while quickly unwrapping it. “No way! How’d you know I use this perfume? I just ran out.”

“Saw it,” Cassandra said with a soft laugh.

Most of Emma’s skincare stuff sat openly on her vanity—hard to miss.

“You’re so thoughtful, seriously. I don’t even know how to repay you.

Wanna kiss as a thank you?” Emma leaned in dramatically, puckering up in an exaggerated flirt.

“I don’t accept forced tok