“Miss Marshall.”
“Miss Bailey, the jewelry competition is in two days. I was thinking of unwinding a bit before the event. Would you like to join me for a swim?” There was a playful tone in Ashlyn’s words, a genuine-sounding invitation that seemed warm and friendly.
But Katelyn couldn’t shake the feeling of hesitation, unsure if she should trust the sincerity behind it. Still, she didn’t decline immediately. Instead, she responded plainly, “Alright, I’ll pick the place. I have a spot in mind that I’d like to show you.”
Having grown up in Granville, Katelyn knew all the hidden gems the city had to offer.
Ashlyn, seemingly unbothered by the change in plans, replied with a cheerful, “Sounds perfect.”
“I’ll send you the location, let’s meet there later,” Katelyn said, her voice steady. Driving out of her way to pick Ashlyn up didn’t seem worth the hassle, especially since their routes didn’t align. Ashlyn was quick to agree, “Got it. See you soon.”
After a few more pleasantries, they hung up. Katelyn stared at her phone, its screen now dim. A cloud of uncertainty lingered in her mind. Why had Ashlyn reached out now? Was it really just for a simple swim to unwind? Her skepticism lingered, unanswered.
Katelyn put away her phone, brushing off her unease. This could be the perfect chance to confirm her suspicion about Ashlyn being Sophia. After all, no disguise could survive the vulnerability of a swimming pool.
With a determined nod, Katelyn made her way to her car.
An hour slipped by before Katelyn finally arrived at the hotel, just as the sun melted into the horizon. She paused at the hotel entrance, taking in the stunning sunset before her.
Every chapter lives on g a lno vels ; comm
The hotel, nestled on the outskirts of Granville, was encircled by mountains. The air felt fresh, cleaner than the city’s heavy atmosphere.
Before she could take in the view any longer, Ashlyn’s car pulled into the lot.
Ashlyn emerged from her car, her white dress billowing gently in the wind, her every step graceful and poised. She resembled a blooming flower, delicate and serene, effortlessly spreading calm to everyone nearby.
Katelyn stepped forward, offering a polite smile.
“Miss Marshall, it feels like ages since we last met.”
In truth, Katelyn had spent the past two weeks in quiet seclusion, avoiding unnecessary interactions.
Ashlyn returned the smile, her tone warm but measured.
“It has indeed been some time. I heard you’ve had your hands full lately, so I thought it best not to intrude.”
As they exchanged pleasantries, the two made their way into the hotel.
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