Chapter 689

"Come and eat," Jasper called out. I stayed put and watched him set the table. "Come on. Try it," he said. He looked like Brandon in the light—almost identical, especially when stirring the potato soup a moment ago. People could disguise themselves, but their small gestures and habits often gave them away. So, I thought Jasper must have been Brandon. I walked over to Jasper, wrapped my arms around him from behind, and rested my face against his back. He tensed up but didn't push me away. "It's time to eat," Jasper said. "You're Brandon, aren't you?" I whispered. Jasper stayed quiet, so I turned him to face me, locking eyes with him. "It's just us here. Just tell me you're Brandon, okay?" "No. I'm not." His words tore apart my illusion. "I'm Jasper Payne!" I stopped asking him and slowly let go of his hand. "I'm sorry. You look so much like Brandon when you're cooking in that apron. You even stir the potato soup the same way—three times with your left hand." Jasper tightened