Chapter 1863

Mitchel said, No need to apologize.
Your timing couldn*t have been better, actually.
I just wrapped up my work and could use a break.
Unable to refuse his kindness, Marlowe walked beside him.
The two of them walking side by side drew numerous stares-after all, Mitchel was popular here, and until now, only Ariana had been seen this close to him.
The hallway whispers were unmistakable.
Speculations about Mitchel and Marlowes potential relationship buzzed.
Though Marlowe couldnt hear the specific words, the suggestive glances were impossible to miss.
She stole a sideways glance at Mitchel.
Mitchels hands were tucked casually in his pockets, his demeanor unruffled.
His composure only heightened Marlowes awkwardness. Desperate to break the silence, she struggled to find a conversation starter.
Suddenly, Mitchel turned to look at her.
Have you found a new job? he asked.
Marlowes eyes lit up.
Yes! Im going to be an actress! Do you know who signed me? Who? Mitchel asked.
Miss Edwards! Marlowe exclaimed.
Yesterday, I accompanied my friend to an audition and ran into Miss Edwards.
She turned out to be the interviewer! Shes so elegant and kind-she even encouraged me to audition.
And then, she offered to sign me as an artist! Caught up in her excitement, she added without thinking, You really do have great taste! No wonder you like Miss Edwards! Mitchel watched Marlowe with a gentle smile, a hidden tenderness softening his gaze.
As her excited chatter subsided, Marlowes mind wandered to recent online gossip.
Whispers suggested Mitchel harbored feelings for Ariana yet remained unsuccessful in winning her heart.
Nervous laughter escaped Marlowes lips as she patted Mitchels shoulder.
Chadwick, you are outstanding.
You will surely win Miss Edwards heart eventually! Her words rang hollow.
Deep down, Marlowe felt a sharp pang of envy.
Ariana seemed perfect-gentle, kind, and competent-an ideal match for Mitchel.
Yet something profound stirred within her, a reluctance to imagine Mitchel with another woman.
Mitchel chuckled softly.
Win over Arianas heart? he said.
Theres no need for that.
Ariana is already part of my family.
Marlowe froze, her mind spinning. Did this mean that Mitchel and Ariana were already together? Married in secret, perhaps, with their families approval? A strange bitterness washed over Marlowe as she thought about that.
As she and Mitchel approached the door, Marlowe hesitated.
She wanted to ask questions about the matter but stopped herself.
You can go back now, Marlowe said, halting her steps.
Mitchel paused, glancing at his watch.
He had been planning to invite Marlowe for lunch, but perhaps she had other priorities.
He asked, Where are you headed? Let me give you a ride.
Marlowe shook her head, raising her phone.
No need for that.
Ill grab a cab, she said, opening the taxi app.
How long until the cab gets here? Mitchel asked.