The Pretender and The Prince novel Chapter 34

Over the years, Seth’s collection of cars had surely grown, yet on that day, he had come to pick her up in an old, unremarkable car.

Ondine guessed the Toyota belonged to Zeke. Seth had been in the car too; he probably hadn’t ridden in such an inexpensive vehicle his entire life.

Could it be that he was afraid a luxury car would attract too much attention and start rumors? She hadn’t thought about it at the time, but listening to her roommates gossip, it suddenly made sense. She would have to ask Zeke about it sometime.

A moment later, her phone vibrated again. It was an unknown number.

“Hello?”

“Hello, is this Ms. Sterling? I’m from a housekeeping service. I’m downstairs at your dormitory. Would it be possible for you to let me up?”

It was the person Seth had sent to help her pack.

“I’ll be right down,” Ondine said, heading for the stairs.

The professional packer was efficient, getting everything boxed up in just over an hour.

“Wow, Ondine, you hired someone to pack?” Yasmeen asked, surprised. “Why are you packing everything? Aren’t you coming back next semester?”

Ondine nodded. “My mom is very sick and needs treatment in another city. I have to go take care of her, so I won’t be back. There are no classes next semester anyway.”

They had finished all their major courses. The second semester of their senior year was reserved for writing their theses and doing internships. There was a thesis proposal presentation at the beginning of the semester, which usually required students to be on campus, but exceptions could be made. Ondine had already submitted a request to participate online. She planned to stay away until graduation in June.

Hearing about her mother, her roommates offered their sympathy and support. Ondine was beautiful, smart, and had a kind personality; they all liked her.

Allegra gave her a hug. “Oh, sweetie, I’m going to miss you. I hope your mom gets well soon.”

“Me too,” Yasmeen added. “Keep in touch, okay?”

Reina suggested, “Why don’t we go out for a farewell dinner tonight?”

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