Girl Get Rid Of That Jerk (Williams and Shawn) novel Chapter 476

Joshua didn’t say a word, just stared at Allison with those wounded, puppy-dog eyes.

She refused to look at him, shutting the door behind her with a decisive click.

At the front door, Allison paused, took a couple of deep breaths to pull herself together, then opened up for Linda.

Linda was waiting outside, arms full with a big insulated container and a kind, motherly smile. “Allie, I tried calling you, but you didn’t answer. Have you eaten yet? I made your favorite black chicken and yam soup, and some salt-and-pepper shrimp.”

Allison stepped aside to let her in. “I haven’t eaten yet—I was busy and had my phone on silent. Didn’t notice you called.”

Not exactly a lie. She really had been occupied.

Linda came inside and set the container on the dining table. She opened it up and started putting the dishes out, her movements practiced and gentle. “No matter how busy you are, you have to remember to eat.”

“Thank you, Linda. I appreciate it,” Allison said softly.

Linda waved her off. “It’s no trouble. I was free today, so I figured I’d come see how you’re doing.” She finished laying out the food and handed Allison a pair of chopsticks. “Eat while it’s hot.”

“Okay.” Allison pulled out a chair and sat down.

She took small sips of the soup, savoring the familiar taste.

Linda watched her for a moment, then suddenly asked, “Why are your cheeks so red?”

Allison, caught off guard, choked a little on her soup.

“Slow down,” Linda said, her voice gentle and full of concern.

She came over and pressed a hand to Allison’s forehead. “You feel a little warm. Are you running a fever? Should I take you to the doctor?”

That wasn’t a lie. Unless Allison had other plans, Shannon came over to cook every day.

And it was only eleven—totally normal for Shannon to be out shopping.

Just as she finished speaking, the door opened and Shannon walked in, arms full of fresh groceries. She paused, surprised to see Linda.

Allison introduced them. “This is my aunt.”

Shannon quickly greeted her. “Hello, ma’am.”

Linda smiled back, polite and warm. “Hello.”