The gossip about Caleb and Alexandriaâs affair was all over the front page.
It was only then that I realized Andrew had misunderstood Caleb because of what he saw online.
I was momentarily speechless.
I looked at Andrew and asked with a helpless smile, âSo, you came all the way here just for this?â
Debraâs POV:
Andrewâs brow furrowed, and he said with a serious tone, âIs this a minor issue? If it concerned only Caleb, I might agree.
But rumors about Abby are circulating too.
Everyoneâs talking.
Thatâs why Iâm here, to see you in person.
â
His worry was evident in his eyes.
My smile faltered, and I responded with a hint of guilt, âIâm sorry.
Honestly, those rumors and trending searches are part of my plan.
I didnât mean to worry you.
It was careless of me not to inform you and our friends beforehand.
I truly apologize.
â
âWas this all planned?â Andrewâs surprise was palpable.
I nodded and quickly explained the events of the past few days to him.
With the full story in hand, Andrew let out a relieved sigh and said with a light-hearted smile, âI see now.
I was worried over nothing.
Just glad youâre okay.
â
A wave of shame washed over me, particularly when I noticed the fatigue etched on Andrewâs face.
To make amends, I suggested, âForget the coffee.
How about I treat you to dinner at a renowned restaurant in the Thorn Edge Pack?â
His interest piqued, Andrew agreed enthusiastically, âSure, Iâve yet to experience authentic local cuisine.
â
With that, we left the cafe in high spirits, chatting and laughing.
As I was about to step into the car, I caught sight of someone snapping photos of us from a distance.
I scowled and fixed my gaze on the photographer.
The man was taken aback and looked =into my eyes.
Realizing he was caught, he made a swift move to escape.
Andrew, however, didnât give him the opportunity to flee.
He strode forward and seized the man who had been taking photographs.
In a low voice, Andrew demanded, âWhy did you take these photos? Did someone hire you to follow us? Delete them now!â
Having served many years in the military, Andrew exuded an intimidating aura that visibly frightened the man.
Stammering, the photographer quickly apologized, âIâm sorry.
I wonât do it again.
No one paid me.
Itâs justâ¦sheâs so beautiful, I couldnât resist snapping a few shots.
â
As he finished his explanation, the man suddenly let out a piercing scream and cried, âLet me go, please!â
The scream startled both Andrew and me.
Reacting instinctively, Andrew released his grip.
Yet, the man continued to wail, âHelp! It hurts! It hurts so much!â
Dramatically, he then collapsed to the ground and continued his cries.
His loud outbursts quickly drew the attention of passersby.
Unaware of the full story, several onlookers began defending the man sprawled on the pavement.
They pointed at Andrew angrily.
âWho do you think you are? How dare you assault someone in broad daylight?â