Yet, I couldnât help but notice something was off.
Harlan seemed slightly distracted, his eyes darting around as if searching for someone else behind us.
Debraâs POV:
I knew exactly who Harlan was searching for.
With a playful smile, I asked, âWhat are you looking at, Harlan?â
A blush crept up his neck.
He darted his gaze away, shaking his head with a flustered denial.
âNothing.
Just looking around, really.
â
Knowing Harlanâs shy nature, I decided to drop the teasing.
But Caleb wasnât as subtle.
âHarlan, are you looking for Zoe?â
A flicker of panic crossed Harlanâs face, deepening his blush.
âNo, no!â He waved his hand dismissively, his voice laced with anxiety.
âIâm definitely not looking for anyone.
Just taking in the scenery.
â
Caleb and I exchanged a glance, barely stifling laughter.
Harlan wore his heart on his sleeve; his emotions were written all over his face.
His clumsy lie was as transparent as glass.
âRight,â Caleb said with a grin.
Harlan, oblivious to our amusement, remained fixated elsewhere.
He sighed in disappointment as he realized the only other passengers were our drivers.
He fidgeted for a moment before hesitantly asking, âDidnât Zoe come with you guys today?â
Sure enough.
Caleb and I shared another knowing smile.
Just as I opened my mouth to reply, a burst of Laughter cut through the air.
âFound a parking spot!â
Zoe emerged from around the corner, approaching us with a bright smile.
âHey Debra, I got the car parked.
Weâre all set to go!â
The moment Harlan heard Zoeâs voice, his demeanor shifted.
He straightened nervously, his gaze flitting to Zoe.
He swallowed hard, stammering out a greeting.
âZoe, good afternoon.
Nice to see you again.
How have you been?â
Zoe, however, simply rolled her eyes and bypassed him completely.
This surprised me.
The last time they were together, they seemed to be getting along well.
Plus, she readily agreed to join our Xeric Pack outing.
So why the sudden cold shoulder?
Unfazed, Harlan seemed to anticipate this reaction.
A hint of dejection colored his voice as he said, âWell, itâs almost Lunchtime.
Letâs tackle this business first, then grab lunch.
Iâve made reservations at a restaurant; they have your favorite dish ready.
How does that sound?â
Zoe continued to ignore him, walking ahead of the group without a single glance in his direction.
Caleb and I exchanged a silent shrug.
It was clear there was trouble brewing between Zoe and Harlan.