Page 111 of Hidden Echoes

Before I can process it, she hugs him.

And Zane reciprocates.

My brain freezes.

Zane isn’t one for hugs.

Then he looks at me, silently asking me not to freak out.

My mind goes on high alert.

I study her. Every detail.

Then, before Zane can even introduce her, the girl turns to me with a huge smile.

“When Carter said you got married, he left out that it was to such a beautiful girl!”

Okay. What?

I feel my face flush.

“Nice to meet you, I’m Lara.”

“Hi,” I say, still surprised. “Mia.”

“Don’t flirt with my wife,” Zane grumbles.

“Relax, I’m not a homewrecker,” Lara jokes, winking at me. “But I have a feeling you and I are going to get along great. Are you busy after this?”

I frown, processing her chaotic energy.

I shake my head no.

“Great! I really want to go shopping and try food at a new restaurant. Will you come with me?”

Is this girl really related to Carter?

“I would love.”

“Perfect!” She beams and hands me a card before leaving. “Here’s my number. Text me and I’ll pick you up.”

I take the card, still a little shocked at the fact that she shares the same blood as Carter.

As soon as the door closes, I turn to Zane.

“How can she be related to Carter?”

Zane sighs. “Carter wasn’t always like this. The drugs changed him. Don’t mention Carter to Lara, it’s a sensitive subject for her.”

I cross my arms, still trying to process.

Zane shakes his head.

“Lara is like that. Don’t give her too much freedom or she’ll want to dress you up and make her own little doll.”

I stare at her card.

Maybe that’s not a bad idea.

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