The Pretender and The Prince novel Chapter 56

“Valentine’s Day means nothing to me,” another sighed. “I’ll just be at home binging a series.”

The group of women walked out of the Thorne Group building, their laughter fading down the hall.

Seth stopped in his tracks. His assistant, Zeke, paused beside him.

“Is tomorrow Valentine’s Day?” Seth asked, his voice neutral.

Zeke, perpetually swamped with work and single himself, never paid attention to holidays. He quickly checked his phone’s calendar. “Yes, Mr. Thorne.”

Seth was silent for a moment. “Book me a ticket to Boreal for tomorrow morning.”

“Right away, Mr. Thorne.”

“And one more thing…” Seth considered. “Find out what Valentine’s Day events are happening in Boreal tomorrow, or places that are popular with young couples.”

Zeke’s eyebrows shot up. His boss had a date? Was he going to see Ms. Sterling? Haha, the eternal iceberg was finally thawing.

Suppressing his inner gossip, Zeke maintained a professional expression. “Of course, Mr. Thorne.”

Zeke was highly efficient. Within an hour, he had compiled and sent Seth a detailed list of Valentine’s Day activities and romantic date spots in Boreal.

When Seth got home, he didn’t even bother to shower before opening the file. As he scanned the list, his eyes lit up.

The Boreal Sports Center was hosting an exhibition for the game “Arena of Valor”. He immediately picked up the phone and called the event organizer.

…

Ondine was just finishing lunch with her mother when Seth called.

“Hello, Seth.”

“Come downstairs. I’m taking you somewhere.”

“What?” Ondine was completely bewildered. “Seth, are you back in Boreal?”

“Yes. I’m outside the hospital.”

“Oh, okay. I’ll be right down.”

A few minutes into the drive, he asked, “Have you eaten?”

“Yes,” she replied softly.

He just said, “Good,” and the car fell silent again, the only sound the soft hum of the engine.

In the enclosed space, her mind began to wander.

Seth had gone on a blind date in Riverdale. The girl had been a good match for him, but he had rejected her. Because he was still in love with Ethel. Zaria had said that if Ethel came back, he would almost certainly get back together with her. If Ethel returned before her mother was well, would he ask for a divorce? If he did, she would have no choice but to agree…

“We’re here,” Seth’s voice cut through her thoughts.

Ondine looked around. They were in an underground parking garage.

“Where are we?”

Seth unbuckled his seatbelt. “You’ll see.”