?Chapter 1058:

    She said to Gracie, “To me, it’s just a matter of time before she bes part of the family.”

    “You should tread carefully. They’re not married yet, and who knows what could change down the line? If they split, and you’re still so tight with her, you’ll be stuck in an awkward spot,” Gracie said.

    She felt indignant. Why did Ethan’s cousin seem to adore Brenna so much? She shot Brenna a frosty nce, itching to know how Brenna had won over Ethan’s family.

    Brenna opened her mouth to retort that Gracie’s concern was unwarranted, but before she could say anything, Bess spoke up, visibly angry.

    “I’m not sure what your deal is with Ethan, but you clearly don’t know him well. Ethan’s picky about who he lets into his heart and has never had a girlfriend before. Once hemits to someone, it’s a lifelong decision. He won’t change his mind easily.”

    Bess gave Gracie a slow, appraising look. Sure, Gracie was tall and undeniably gorgeous, but her air of superiority made it seem like she believed that everyone else was beneath her.

    How could Ethan ever go for someone like her?

    “Ethan wouldn’t even spare you a nce in a million years,” Bess added sharply. Brenna stifled augh. Bess had a sharp tongue, saying everything she had wanted to say.

    Gracie said, “That’s nonsense. Back in Norview, ten years ago, Ethan and I had some close moments. He was very kind to me.”

    Bess rolled her eyes. “You’ve known him for so many years, yet you’re not his girlfriend. Doesn’t that tell you he was never into you?”

    She grabbed Brenna’s arm and started down the steps. “I owe you a thank-you for giving me Dalton’s contact information. I will treat you to a meal; I know this amazing spot. After we’re done, I’ll drive you home.”

    Brenna didn’t object and slid into Bess’ car. She had arrived in Ethan’s car earlier, so she nced toward his car. It looked empty.

    Gracie, fuming, stomped over to Ethan’s car, only to find it unupied. She dialed his number, hoping he would arrange a ride for her to go back, but he didn’t pick up.

    With no cabs avable during rush hour, she had to take a bus or the subway to get back.

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    That evening, Brenna returned home and saw Dalton, who hadn’t been home for over two months. Fresh from a shower, he walked downstairs.

    “What’s that you’re holding?” Dalton asked as he noticed the takeout box.

    Brenna handed it to him. “I ate out with a friend, and the food was so good I brought some back. Want to try it?”

    Dalton took the box to the dining table and dug in. “I just got home, and I’m famished.”

    Brenna sat across from him, telling him about Bess. “If I had known you were back, I would have invited her in to say hi.”

    “No, I’m not ready. Look at me—no makeup. Gotta prep before meeting fans, or I might not make the best impression,” Dalton said, grinning.

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