Chapter 168: Are You Truly Happy With This Decision
The midday sun streamed through the large windows of the bistro, casting a warm glow on the bustling scene. Lyse sat across from James, the familiar comfort of his presence a welcome balm after the emotional turmoil of the past few weeks.
This was their first proper meeting since his return from his business trip, a trip that felt like it had taken him away for an eternity given all that had transpired in his absence.
"It’s so good to see you, James," Lyse said, a genuine smile gracing her lips. "I’ve missed you."
"I have missed you too, Lyse," James replied, his eyes filled with warmth. "It feels like I have been gone forever. So much has happened. Where is your sexy bodyguard?"
Lyse rolled her eyes in amusement, she knew that Joel had purposefully stayed out of sight so that he would not be subjected to James’s flirting.
James leaned forward, his expression concerned. "How are you holding up?" he asked. "How are you dealing with... everything."
Lyse sighed, her smile fading slightly. She knew James had been filled in on the basics – the DNA revelation, Sutton’s death, Levi’s questioning – but she had not had the chance to give him the full story.
"It’s been... a lot," she admitted. "More than I can even begin to explain. After you abandoned me." She accused sulkily.
"If I knew that all of this would happen when I left you alone, I would have not gone anywhere." James said, reaching out his hands to hold hers.
The contrite look in his eyes mollified her, she knew that it was not his fault that he was not around in the midst of all her drama. She took a deep breath and began to recount the events of the past few weeks, starting with her amnesia and Brooke and Lottie’s attempt to use it against her. Next was her father’s death then the discovery of Levi’s secret about Brandon’s paternity, then moving on to Sutton’s death and the subsequent police investigation.
"I can’t believe your dad was so crooked." James blurted out and slapped his hand over his mouth. "Not supposed to speak evil of the dead."