The first day of the new semester was bright and sunny.
Naomi woke up early, planning to use the excuse that Zebulon was still asleep so she could go to school by herself. But as soon as she went downstairs, Mrs. Gonzalez informed her that Zebulon was waiting outside.
Naomi was genuinely stunned.
They had been giving each other the silent treatment for so long. Why would Zebulon come to pick her up?
And why was he up so early?
A pampered prince like Zebulon usually slept in until whenever he pleased.
In the past, she would usually wait for him in the car, reading a book, until he finally woke up so they could go to school together.
There had been several times she was almost late because of it.
“Naomi? What are you standing there for? Grab your breakfast and go!” Mrs. Gonzalez said with a hint of reproach. “Honestly, since when do you make Zebulon wait for you?”
“Hurry up.”
Seeing Naomi hesitate, she took a sandwich from the maid and pushed it into Naomi’s hands.
As she ushered her toward the door, she whispered, “Remember what I told you last night. Talk things over with Zebulon.”
Naomi felt a surge of frustration, but years of ingrained habit made her lower her head and let Mrs. Gonzalez lead her outside.
Sure enough, Zebulon was waiting by the gate.
He had his sapphire-blue sports car today, a vehicle as flashy and arrogant as his family’s status.
When he saw Naomi, his eyes lit up for a second, but the look quickly morphed into a sly, almost mocking smile.
Having been by his side for so many years, Naomi knew him all too well. Whenever Zebulon made that face, he was about to do something to make her uncomfortable.
Naomi suddenly reached out and grabbed Mrs. Gonzalez’s hand. “Mom, I—”


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