Chapter 1069:
“Pierre.” Gemma’s call snapped him out of his reverie. “I’ve been trying to get your attention. Where were you?”
Regaining his composure, Pierre replied, “Oh, it’s loud in here. I didn’t hear you.”
Gemma sensed his evasion and felt slighted.
Trying to regain focus, Pierre asked, “What’s up?”
Gemma gestured toward a model across the store. “Do you like that dress?”
Pierre glanced at the model, who resembled Gemma in build but was rather plain, wearing an unremarkable dress. “It’s alright,” he said casually.
Gemma, detecting his lack of enthusiasm but undeterred, had the clerk prepare the dress for purchase. “I’m ready to go,” she declared, moving toward the exit.
Collecting the bags, Pierre followed, noting her annoyance. He explained, “A friend is in trouble. She sent a distressing message, and it’s been on my mind.”
Gemma’s eyes widened, her annoyance quickly shifting to concern. “When did this happen?”
“It’s already being handled. I’ve asked a friend to check on her,” Pierre replied.
Explore more fiction on gαℓησν𝒆𝓁s․𝒸𝓸𝗺
“Have you heard anything yet?” Gemma asked, remembering Pierre’s limited circle in Warrington and feeling a twinge of unease. “I wouldn’t have suggested shopping…”
“If I’d known… Maybe you should go to her now,” Gemma suggested, her voice filled with genuine concern.
Pierre appreciated the worry in her eyes. “No, it’s fine. I’ll get you home first,” he responded.
Gemma chose not to press him further.
Once they arrived home, Pierre’s phone rang. It was Talia. His face grew somber.
Noticing his need for privacy, Gemma retreated to the living room to unpack her purchases.
Answering the call, Pierre heard Talia’s subdued voice.
“Pierre…”
“What’s happening? What did your message mean?” Pierre asked, concern etching his voice.
Talia’s voice wavered, betraying her attempt to sound casual. “It’s nothing. Just a silly argument that went too far.”
She hesitated and then shared more about her situation. Talia had met her fiancé during a low point in her career. He had been a comforting presence, and they had quickly fallen in love.
Initially, he seemed perfect, but a few months into their engagement, after she became pregnant, his darker side emerged.
Their first major argument had ended with a slap. Talia considered leaving, but he pleaded for forgiveness, blaming his behavior on alcohol and promising it wouldn’t happen again.
