?Chapter 1008:


    Luckily, Sadie had managed to bluff her way through. For now, anyway. She forced herself to stay calm, then turned to address the stunned patrons.


    “Everyone,” Sadie said, her tone steady and slightly apologetic. “I’m truly sorry for the disruption. This was supposed to be a personal matter. As an apology, I would like to cover everyone’s bill.”


    The chatter in the cafe died down, then all at once, everyone broke into light apuse.


    Free drinks and desserts? Who would refuse that deal? First, they were treated to some drama, and now they were getting literal treats? They had practically hit the jackpot!


    “How incredibly generous of Ms. Hudson!”


    “I know! Not only is she gorgeous, but she is very gracious, too!”


    “That other woman was so absurd, twisting the story around like that!”


    “Right? She didn’t seem like a good person at all.”


    Just like that, everyone was rallying behind Sadie, and Hailey’s usations were forgotten. All they could talk about now was Sadie’s magnanimity.


    Sadie just smiled and nodded in thanks as they offered kind words and praises.


    At some point, ine sidled up next to her again. Judging by his expression, his mood had cooled off, if only a little.


    Once Sadie finished making the arrangements with the waiter, she ushered him to the door. “Let’s go.”


    The pair walked out of the establishment side by side.


    Without warning, ine stopped short, his eyes narrowed into slits.


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    Sadie tilted her head to the side, her brows furrowed as she asked, “What is it?”


    ine shoved his hands into his trouser pockets and whipped around to face her.


    Sadie felt her heart skip a beat at his sharp, questioning gaze.


    “Sadie,” ine began slowly, as though he were choosing his words carefully. “Be honest with me. You’ve been hung up on Noah all these years.” He paused to peer at her more closely. “And what—have you now moved on to Patrick? But then again, you spoke of yourte husband… Does that mean—”


    Sadie’s face changed when she realized what he was about to say. She lunged forward and pped her hand over ine’s mouth before he could get the rest of his words out.


    Her eyes darted around, her heart racing. Thankfully, they were standing in a rather isted spot. No one could have overheard their conversation.


    ine had almost spilled everything!


    Sadie shot him a warning look, even as her lips curled into a strained half-smile.


    “What are you even talking about?” she whispered, torn between panic and frustration. “Stop thinking absurd thoughts. You’re reading into something that isn’t there.”


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