"Can I really take it?" Abigail asked eagerly.
"Ms. Fitzgerald, do you understand the meaning of 'modesty'?" Taylor asked with a frown, finally unable to hold back.
"How many signatures from Cory Swift can modesty actually earn you?" Abigail replied confidently. "I think you're just jealous of me."
"Jealous of you?" Taylor exclaimed, jumping to his feet. He glanced toward the kitchen and leaned closer to Abigail, whispering, "Can you at least appreciate that I'm looking out for you?
"I care about you as a friend. It's not just about how fun a guy is; it's about whether he can take care of you. A journalist probably won't have time to cook. Do you really want to be the one handling everything forever?"
At that moment, Gideon walked over, holding three desserts. "Try these! I made them myself. They might not be super sweet—I'm trying to keep my weight in check."
"What? You can make desserts?" Abigail exclaimed, her eyes shining with surprise. "They look amazing—way better than anything you'd get at a restaurant!"
"I studied abroad, and since I love Cholonese cuisine, I often cook for myself. Over time, I've picked up a bit of everything," Gideon said with a grin as he handed her one of the plates.
Taylor glanced at the exquisite desserts on the table and took a seat, opting for silence. He had intended to critique them, but when he took a bite, he was pleasantly surprised by the flavor.
Yet, oddly, he felt no joy in savoring something so delicious.
"Wow!" Abigail exclaimed, her enthusiasm bubbling over as she nodded eagerly. "This is incredible!"
Gideon chucked. "If you love it, you're always welcome to come by," he said with a warm smile.
"Sure thing!" Abigail said, flashing a thumbs-up at him. "I'll remember that—when I'm low on cash, I'll just drop by your place for food and drinks!"
"It would be my pleasure to have you," Gideon said, smiling gently.
As Abigail and Gideon continued their animated conversation, Taylor felt increasingly sidelined.
When they were about to leave, Abigail and Gideon exchanged contact information.
Soon, Taylor and Abigail were back on the road.
The rest of the ride was silent, neither of them speaking.
…
In the dead of night, Seymour groggily heard some noises. Just as he was about to open his eyes, a hand abruptly covered his mouth.
"Shh!"
Seymour jolted awake. As his eyes adjusted, he realized Helen was beside him.
Once she confirmed he was awake, she pulled her hand away and crouched low, looking around cautiously.
"Ms. Spencer," Seymour whispered, "what's happening?"
Helen remained quiet, tilting her chin toward the balcony.
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