Chapter 177

NOAH “Northstar Creative might be the advertising agency handling the new campaign for Riverwalk Plaza. That’s why Ms. Evans and I know each other,” Edward explained as he wiped the sweat from his forehead. Just then, the girl standing beside Olivia leaned closer and called her name. “Olivia.” She whispered something to her, and a moment later they excused themselves from our group. The woman led Olivia toward another cluster of guests across the room and began introducing her. My eyes narrowed slightly as I watched them walk away. “I remember you have a fourteen-year-old son, don’t you?” I asked calmly. Edward’s expression stiffened immediately. His face turned noticeably pale. “Yes,” he replied cautiously. “He just turned fourteen this year.” I said nothing after that. For several seconds the silence stretched between us, and I could see the tension building on his face. A faint smile tugged at the corner of my lips. Then I spoke again. “Since you know Ms. Evans,” I said evenly, “you