Page 60 of The Beat of her Heart

“It’s been good,” Giselle said, trying to keep the conversation short.

“I heard about your ex,” Ashley said, her voice soft. “I’m so sorry for your loss.”

A lump formed in her throat.

“Thanks,” Giselle managed to say. “But I don’t really want to talk about it.”

“Of course, of course,” Ashley said quickly. “I just wanted to check in.”

“I appreciate it,” Giselle said. “But I’m good.”

“Okay,” Ashley said. “Well, if you ever need anything, just let me know.”

“Thanks,” Giselle said. “I will.”

She hung up the phone and sighed. She didn’t know why Ashley had called. Maybe she’d just wanted to catch up. Or maybe she’d had something else on her mind. Either way, Giselle wasn’t in the mood to talk about her ex.

She looked out the window, lost in thought.

A few minutes later, she saw Addie walking toward her car. She was moving quickly, her expression determined. Gisellewatched her, admiring the way her hair fell around her face and how her eyes sparkled.

Addie approached the car, a small smile playing on her lips. “Sorry, that took longer than I expected,” she said.

“It’s fine,” Giselle replied. “Shall we?”

20

ADDIE

Addie settled into the passenger seat of Giselle’s car, her mind racing. The offer of a visit to Giselle’s home had caught her off guard. She hadn’t expected this invitation, but she did crave it.

“Are you sure this is a good idea?” Addie asked, glancing at Giselle as she turned the key in the ignition.

Giselle stared ahead, her expression unreadable. “It’s just a quick visit, since you have to pick up Sophie soon.”

“Right,” Addie said. As they drove through the streets of Phoenix Ridge, the sunlight illuminated Giselle’s profile. Addie found it hard to look away.

Giselle shifted lanes, her grip on the steering wheel firm. “You’ve been quiet.”

“I’m just thinking,” Addie replied. “About how you’ve changed since you got here.”

“Changed?” Giselle repeated, her tone icy. “I’m still the same.”

Addie let out a soft laugh. “You were a lot colder when we first met.”

“I can be warm,” Giselle said flatly.

Addie raised an eyebrow, trying to keep the mood light. “Oh, definitely. Icebergs have warmth, too.”

Giselle shot her a look, a flicker of annoyance crossing her face. “Very funny.”

They continued in silence, the hum of the car engine filling the air. Addie took in the scenery outside, the vibrant colors of the city blurring past. She shifted in her seat.

“What about you? Do you like it here?” Giselle asked abruptly.

“I do,” Addie said, trying to gauge Giselle’s mood. “The weather’s nice. And the hospital feels like home.”

“Home,” Giselle echoed, her voice devoid of warmth. “That’s a strong word.”

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