Rachel frowned at the thought of the two companies organizing a joint team–building event.
The image of William and Samantha being together again suggested it was inevitable someone would gossip about it.
It was probably best if she didn’t go.
But she didn’t voice that thought to Tyler. She only responded with a grunt.
After they finished eating, Rachel paid the bill, and they left. It was already late by the time they stepped out of the restaurant.
Once they got in the car, Tyler asked, “Do you want me to take you home?”
“No, just drop me off at-” Before she could finish, her phone rang again. “Sorry, I need to take this.” Rachel swiped to answer. Cecilia, what’s wrong? I was just about to head over.”
“My kid’s running a fever. We’re at the hospital now. Rachel, would you mind staying at a hotel tonight instead?“.
Rachel was well aware of Cecilia’s family situation and didn’t even question the change in plans. “Do you need my help with anything?”
Cecilia immediately waved it off. “No, no, I’ve got it under control, just feel bad. Everything was already arranged.
“It’s fine. Really. Just call me if anything comes up.”
After hanging up, Rachel had no choice but to change her plans.
“Mr. Hunt, could you drop me off at Tangerine Hotel?”
“Sure.”
Tyler didn’t ask any questions. With a light step of the pedal, the car sped off into the night. Rachel actually appreciated this about Tyler. Not many people could refrain from probing.
“1
When they arrived at Tangerine Hotel, Rachel thanked him and got out.
At the front desk, she began searching her purse for her ID. After a while, her expression changed. She had completely forgotten
to bring it.
How could she forget?
Feeling awkward, Rachel looked at the receptionist.
“I forgot my ID. Would it be possible to check in without it? It’s just me, and I won’t cause any trouble.”
The receptionist shook her head. “Sorry, but things have been strict lately. Without a valid ID, we can’t check you in unless you have a friend who has theirs. They can help check you in and register you as a guest.”
The first person who popped into Rachel’s head was Tyler. She quickly said, “Can you wait just a moment?”
Rachel ran toward the exit and spotted Tyler just as he was about to drive off.
She rushed up and knocked on his window.
“Mr. Hunt, wait!”
Tyler turned around. “What’s up this time?”
Rachel looked a little sheepish. “I forgot my ID. Can I borrow yours? You just need to come in with me to help register.”
Tyler searched his suit pocket for a bit. “Didn’t bring mine either.
1/2
Rachel’s shoulders dropped. Her last hope was gone.
She really didn’t want to go back. If she returned now, both William and Samantha would be home. God only knew how Samantha would have spun the story about her and Tyler by now.
Tyler was her only hope now.
She did some quick math. There were only four or five days left. If William wanted to misunderstand, let him.
She looked up at Tyler cautiously. “Mr. Hunt, could you let me crash at your place for the night?”
Tyler’s fingers tapped lightly on the steering wheel. His tone was casual with a teasing edge. “Aren’t you worried about sparking rumors? Who knows? By tomorrow morning, you might wake up as Mrs. Hunt.”

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Countdown to My Divorce (Rachel and William)