CHAPTER TWENTY NINE – THE CRAZY FIANCEE

Scarlett bolted upright in bed, heart hammering against her ribs. The sheets were tangled around her, the remnants of a vivid dream clinging to her mind. In the dream, Mr. Stone had stood before her, the mask finally gone, revealing a face both handsome and familiar. But before she could see it clearly, the image dissolved, leaving her with a frustrating sense of incompleteness. Pushing back the covers, Scarlett climbed out of bed. The memory of the night, the stolen moments on the boat, and the lingering touch of his lips sent a shiver down her spine. But the thrill was tinged with unease. Who was he? What secrets did he hide? The questions gnawed at her, leaving a bitter aftertaste in her mouth. Shaking off the lingering dream, Scarlett went through her morning routine. Work at Happy Paws awaited, and with her new role as Events Coordinator, she had a busy day ahead. She pulled on a crisp blouse and tailored trousers, a touch of formality needed for her new position. Arrivi