Chapter 13
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"Sure, but what's wrong?" She looked puzzled.
"Someone I'd rather avoid just walked in."
I ducked into the break room, heart hammering. Through the crack in the door, I watched Sebastian enter with a woman at his side.
Sophia.
"Good afternoon," Sebastian greeted Mia. "We found a kitten that needs examining."
"Don't worry, Sophia," I heard Sebastian say softly. "Dr. Grey is excellent."
"Thank you for coming with me, Sebastian," Sophia replied, her voice syrupy sweet. "After all these years apart, you're still so thoughtful."
*Years apart?* My heart nearly stopped.
"What are you talking about? We're not—" Sebastian began, but Sophia cut him off.
"I know you're married now, but... I still want this kitten, just like we promised back then—to raise a pet together someday."
"Sophia..."
"Just this once?" Her voice dropped to a pleading whisper.
The break room door suddenly swung open. Dr. Grey stepped in.
I spun around, clamping my hand over his mouth, my eyes wide with desperation.
His eyes bulged with surprise behind his glasses.
I leaned close to his ear and whispered urgently: "Please don't say my name. That's my husband out there."
Dr. Grey choked on the water he'd just sipped, spraying it everywhere—soaking my blouse and Oro, who was nestled in my jacket pocket.
Oro shot upright, startled by the sudden shower, and gave his drenched silver scales a miserable look.
"Do you need help?" Dr. Grey asked quietly. "With that couple—your husband and that woman—if you need information..."
"No, thank you," I said, shaking my head. "Some things I need to see for myself."
Dr. Grey nodded, not pushing further. Whether it was professional discretion or genuine concern, I found his restraint incredibly thoughtful.
