When fate plays its hand

Chapter 0773

Madison said, “We’re not exactly close, but Theodore is a really nice guy. Last time at the botanical garden, everyone just stood there. But he was the only one who stepped up to help. I haven’t forgotten that.”

Sebastian replied, “You’ve got a great memory,

She blinked in confusion.

“Everyone you meet is ‘a really nice guy.‘ Do you just like handing out compliments?” he asked..

Madison said, “That’s not… Hey! What’s gotten into you?”

Sebastian said nothing.

At the main gate, Hansel leaned casually against his car. He glanced at his watch now and then as if waiting for someone.

He didn’t have to wait long since Willow arrived shortly after. She jogged over with flushed cheeks and slightly uneven breathing.

She had deliberately avoided her usual bulky winter jacket and opted instead for a coat that accentuated her figure.

She had even styled her hair into a neat bun instead of leaving it down and clipped it with a pearl hairpin. The look was fresh and elegant, with a hint of charm.

“Have you been waiting for a long time? Sorry, I forgot my scarf when heading out, so it took me a little longer.”

Hansel said nothing. His expression was unreadable, but his gaze wandered and drifted toward a different direction.

Willow followed his line of sight and spotted Miranda. Her heart sank as she muttered to herself, “Just as I thought.”

Why else would Hansel call her here so late? Why else insist on meeting at the campus gate? It definitely wasn’t because he missed her.

Since the stage was already set, Willow thought she might as well deliver her part. She clenched her fists and took a deep breath. Then, she loosened her grip and put on a broad,

cheerful smile as she walked toward Miranda.

“What a coincidence, Miranda! I didn’t expect to see you here.”

Miranda smiled faintly. “I’m not the only one you’ve run into.”

Willow’s smile stiffened as if just noticing Sebastian and Madison. “Oh, you two are here

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Chapter 0773

too? What a small world.”

Madison raised an eyebrow. “Willow, why does it sound like we popped out of nowhere? Sebastian and I have been standing here with Miranda the whole time. How’d you not see us?”

Willow said, “Sorry. I guess I wasn’t paying attention.”

Madison sighed theatrically. “I’m standing right here, and you didn’t notice me? Just how focused were you on Miranda? The moment she shows up, it’s like she pulls all your attention.‘

Willow gave a strained smile. “…Sorry, really.”

“It’s okay. I don’t mind,” Madison said with a grin.

At that moment, Hansel stepped forward. He casually wrapped an arm around Willow and looked at Miranda. “Hey! We meet again.”

Miranda nodded faintly. She was even more distant than when she had spoken to Willow.

Hansel either didn’t notice or pretended not to. He continued as if making small talk. “I saw Sam’s post yesterday. Looked like Mr. and Mrs. Garrison Seniors are back from abroad?

She hummed in response.

“So… you were there too?” His tone sounded casual, but his gaze sharpened.

Miranda didn’t reply, but her silence spoke volumes.

“You really went to meet Mr. and Mrs. Garrison Senior with Sam?” Hansel asked.

Miranda glanced at Willow, then frowned. “Mr. Johnson, you might want to remember your role here.”

His role? What did she mean by that?

Obviously, she meant his role as Willow’s boyfriend. He had no right to question Miranda, and she had no obligation to answer that question.

Hansel’s fists clenched as anger buzzed in his head. He wanted to yell, to demand why he couldn’t, but Sam could.

They had both made mistakes, but Sam’s were worse. So, why would she choose Sam over him?

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