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96. Linger

Author: Queen Ash
last update Last Updated: 2025-02-10 20:16:27

James' POV

My sister's performance was outstanding, just like it always is. Annette has been playing the piano since she was four; now she plays it as if it were her very essence. But I can't focus on her. My focus is completely on Clara and Keith, who are seated just two rows ahead of us.

Annette finally invited Keith to stay and see her performance. She could never stay mad at him, and I've known that for ages. There are times when I find myself feeling envious of that.

Clara acted as if she didn't see me at all, and it infuriated me. They were sitting too close, and why did he have to lean in and whisper to her at times? Even Clara laughed at his words!

"James," Zoe said, leaning in closer, "That's the woman I'm talking about."

I turned to her, I heard her words but I wasn't fully focused so I didn't catch what she meant. "Who do you mean?"

"That woman who came with Clara, who turned out to be her cousin. She was the one who came at me in my store yesterday and turned me into the
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