"Where did you go? Why couldn't I reach you? What happened?" a handsome, middle-aged man's voice trembled with worry.
His brows were furrowed, and his eyes searched hers, filled with an unfamiliar anxiety. His wife had always been attentive, careful to let him know where she was and what she was doing, even during simple errands.
But last night had been different.
She hadn't returned home, and the only thing she'd said before leaving was that she'd be heading to the mall to look for some new jewelry.
Jade forced a smile, brushing off his concern with a practiced ease. "I ran into an old friend from high school," she replied smoothly. "We ended up catching up, talking for hours. I didn't even realize my phone had died."
She saw him relax slightly, though the worry hadn't fully faded from his expression. With a quick turn, she stepped away, hoping to escape his gaze before he could notice the evidence that would betray her.
