My Deceased Wife Wants a Divorce (Hannah) novel Chapter 171

"Oh no, that's not necessary. I already told Mr. Lancaster I'd treat him to dinner when he's free."

Before Hannah could finish, Quennel's voice turned slightly sullen. "And what about me?"

"Of course I'm treating you to dinner too!"

Hearing the cheerful lilt in her voice, Quennel was relieved that the incident hadn't affected her too deeply.

He chuckled softly. "You just started a new job. I couldn't let you spend your money like that. You don't need to treat me separately. Just bring me along."

His phoenix eyes narrowed slightly. "And tell Mr. Lancaster he doesn't need to trouble himself with the investigation. The Rosenberg family will take care of its own."

Hannah's lashes fluttered down. Treating them both to one meal felt a bit strange, as if it diminished her gratitude. But Quennel had said it so smoothly, she felt she couldn't refuse.

"Let me ask Mr. Lancaster, and I'll get back to you, okay?"

"Of course," Quennel's low, gentle laugh rumbled through the phone. "Have you had lunch?"

"We just finished. My colleagues were a huge help, so I treated them today."

"You're becoming more and more thoughtful. It's hot out this afternoon, so don't stay outside too long. Get back to the office before you get sunburned."

Quennel's considerate words made Hannah's cheeks flush. She wasn't sure if it was the sun or his voice, but she felt a little dizzy, her skin warm.

"...Okay. Thank you, Quennel."

"There's no need for thanks between us. Go on now."

In the living room, Cora was sulking, her face a thundercloud of resentment.

Hannah ignored her, went to the closet to change, and then came down for dinner.

Throughout the meal, Lionel tried to start a conversation several times, but he never managed to get the words out. After dinner, just as he was about to speak, Hannah cut him off.

"I have work to do tonight. Have someone bring up a snack around nine-thirty."

With that, she went upstairs, effectively shutting down any possibility of a conversation.

Cora, who had been observing from the sidelines, finally made up her mind. Clenching her fists, she followed Hannah upstairs and knocked on the guest room door.

"Ma'am, I need to talk to you."