CHAPTER 36: A SMILE WITH TEETH
Point of View: Lorain Hart
The Conservatory Cafe was tucked away in the glass-domed wing of the alumni building, smelling of espresso beans, crushed mint, and old money. Sun filtered through the iron arches, casting honeycomb shadows across white marble tables.
Cherry was already seated in the quiet corner booth near the high glass walls, looking effortless in an ivory silk blouse and a gold Cartier bracelet that caught the afternoon light. A pot of Earl Grey sat between two fine china cups.
She didn't look up until my heels clicked against the polished stone floor.
"Miss Hart," Cherry murmured, gesturing toward the empty velvet chair opposite her with a manicured hand. "Thank you for taking the time. I know how frantic setting up the floor plan can be."
