Chapter 615

Rose Ward’s eyes dimmed for a moment. She lowered her voice. “You can see how busy I am. I really can’t leave the shop right now.”
Emily Blair replied, “But you have other staff, don’t you? I’m sure they can manage without you for a bit. Besides, you’re the manager-it’s fine if you step away sometimes.”
Rose grew anxious. “It’s not just the shop. Someone in my family is sick, and I have to take care of them too. I really can’t be away from home either.”
“Oh, I see,” Emily said, a shade of disappointment in her tone. “That’s really a shame. With your talent, you’d definitely win something in the competition—maybe even make a name for yourself.”
Emily looked at her steadily. “If it were up to me, I’d love to see you compete.”
Rose shook her head, her voice firm despite its softness. “There’s nothing to regret. Honestly, I’m already content. I have steady work, my family’s health is improving, and I get to play the piano from time to time. That’s more than enough for me. Competitions and trophies aren’t important—they’re just empty fame.”
She pressed her point, speaking a bit too quickly. “Really, I mean it. I’m happy as things are. Don’t feel sorry for me. If you like hearing me play, just drop by the shop anytime. If I’ve got a minute, I’ll play something for you.”
Emily chuckled and patted Rose’s shoulder. “Alright, alright—no pressure. I get it. I’m not forcing you, just making a suggestion. If it doesn’t work for you, forget about
it.”
Rose bit her lip and gave a shy smile.
Emily changed the subject. “Could you make me two of your house coffees? I’ll take them to go.”
Rose practically fled behind the counter. “Of course.”
When Emily left the shop with the coffees in hand, she spotted Elizabeth Wilson waiting across a few scattered patio tables.
She walked over and handed Elizabeth one of the cups. “Give it a try-it’s their newest blend. If you like it, I’ll bring you another next time.”
Elizabeth blinked, sipping through the straw, her words muffled. “Do I even get to say if I don’t like it?”
Emily was honest. “Not really.”
Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “That’s what I thought. So, tell me: this is your second visit -how’s she reacting?”
Emily slid into the passenger seat of the car. “What do you think? It’s only been two visits. I tried pushing her a little just now, and she nearly turned pale.”
Elizabeth tutted. “That’s not much progress.”
Emily bristled. “It’s just the second time. Give it time—what’s the rush?”
Elizabeth reminded her, “Well, don’t forget, in ten days, you’re playing in that piano competition. If you’re not ready, you won’t have time to shine.”
“I know,” Emily said. “I’ve been keeping tabs on her for a while. There’s no rushing this. She still trusts Isabella Austin far more than me. She’s got her guard up.”
“I need to take it slow-let her guard down a bit at a time.”
Elizabeth took another sip. “Well, the coffee is pretty damn good, I’ll give you that.”
“I’ll get you another next time,” Emily promised.
Back inside the coffee shop, one of the staff watched Emily’s retreating figure. “I swear, she looks so familiar. Where have I seen her before?”
Her coworker snorted. “You spend all your time scrolling through gossip online. You’d forget your own mother’s face.”
“No, I’m serious,” the first one insisted, frowning. “She’s so pretty—I’m sure I’ve seen her somewhere.”