Though there wasnât direct proof, it was clear Laurenâs actions were instigated by Katie.
And the kidnapping of Janey, Lucianaâs injury.
Werenât they Katieâs doing?
Even Raegan could connect the dots and deduce it.
Wouldnât Mitchel, a man of his intelligence, also figure it out? Or was he aware and simply letting it happen?
Mitchel noticed Raegan wasnât budging even after a while, so he just bypassed her.
His distant behavior made it seem Like something contagious was in the air around where Raegan was standing.
He seemed eager to widen the distance between him and Raegan.
Mitchel and Katie gradually walked away.
Yet, Raegan could still hear Katieâs voice.
âMitchel, they say the seafood stew here is amazing.
I really want to give it a tryâ¦â
Raeganâs mind was in turmoil, her thoughts a chaotic whirl.
Repeatedly, she reminded herself that Mitchel had his reasons, and she shouldnât overthink it before the fight had even started.
âMiss Foster,â a woman called out, pulling Raegan back to the present.
It was the client Raegan was meant to meet, who had just happened to run into her right here.
Raegan forced a smile, though it was strained.
âMs.
Craig.
â
The woman, the head of the media department, was direct and easy for Raegan to talk to.
Noticing Raeganâs ashen complexion, Ms.
Craig expressed her concern, âYouâre not moving.
Are you feeling unwell?â
Raegan hesitated.
Even a stranger could tell she looked unwell.
Surely, Mitchel would have noticed.
It was hard to believe he hadnât.
Mitchel was usually so observant.
He must have noticed how distressed she looked just now.
His decision to disregard it must have been because he didnât want to express his concern.
Ms.
Craig offered, âMaybe we should postpone our meeting? Would you like to visit a hospital first?â
Snapping out of her daze, Raegan smiled weakly.
âNo, Iâm okay.
Letâs continue.
â
âWhat should we have for lunch?â
âSeafood stew,â Raegan replied.
They arrived at a popular restaurant, which still had a line.
It wasnât yet the busiest time, so the crowd was manageable.
When they reached the front, the waitress asked what they would Like.
Raegan replied, âSeafood stew.
â She had been eager to try the seafood stew Katie claimed was delicious.
The waitress apologized, âIâm sorry, but weâve run out of the seafood stew for today.
â
Ms.
Craig, always enthusiastic and thoughtful, noticed Raeganâs disappointment and tried to uplift her spirits.
She gestured toward a large pot being delivered to another table.
âDo you think those two can finish that entire pot on their own? Maybe we could ask them to share? Weâll pay full price.
â