Nancy, eyes wide with astonishment and delight, shook her head.
"I mentioned it, but he declined.
What brought him here?" Lindsey's gaze narrowed thoughtfully as she looked around.
Domenic was missing.
He'd been here a moment ago.
Where had he vanished to? She quickly texted him.
"Where did you go?" His response was prompt.
"Got tied up with a task from the boss.
Saw you were busy, so I didn't bother you.
I'll be back soon.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtWith a playful note, Lindsey texted back, "Your boss must really value you.
Keep up the good work.
After that, she put her phone in her pocket.
Moments ago, Domenic had slipped away to avoid Ruby when he saw her get out of the car.
Now, he sat on the coffee shop's second floor across the street, taking in the event through the French window.
Mercer was here on Domenic's request, not just as a guest but to perform a song for the opening.
Having a celebrity like Mercer was a big deal.
Had Domenic planned this as a special surprise for Lindsey? Despite finding Domenic's methods excessive, Mercer wouldn't dare defy him.
So here he was, even though unwilling.
Approaching Mercer, Lindsey greeted him with a warm, professional smile, "Mr.
Aston, what a pleasure to have you.
Please, have a seat.
Mercer shot Lindsey a quick wink and made his way to the guest seat, where he took a seat.
His assistant leaned over to Lindsey and shared that Mercer was set to perform a song at the opening event. This news took Lindsey by surprise.
Mercer offering to sing was a rare treat, something not even money could usually secure.
She couldn't help but wonder what made her so lucky to receive this privilege.
"Linds, there's something off today.
It feels like everyone's lost their minds.
"Nancy couldn't hide her astonishment.
To her, Mercer had always been the dream guy.
And now he was here to perform? It didn't make sense.
Lindsey, with a playful arm around Nancy's shoulder and a curious lift of her brows, teased, "Maybe he's here just for you.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm"For me?" Nancy pointed to herself, disbelief coloring her voice as she stared at Mercer.
"No way..." "I barely know the guy.
There's no way he chere for me.
It just doesn't make sense.
It's you he's close to.
Why else would he suddenly show up offering to sing?" Lindsey nused over it trying to piece it together logically. Nancy felt a flutter of hope.
Could Mercer have cfor her? Meanwhile, Nicolas watched Mercer.
Although the two were brothers, their relationship was a secret known only to those closest to them. In public, they acted as strangers.
With all the guests seated, Lindsey announced the start of the ceremony.
The usual formalities and speeches wrapped up quickly.
The singer Lindsey originally booked was unexpectedly replaced by Mercer. m As the audience applauded, Mercer strolled to the stage's center.
Dressed in a relaxed suit, his good looks were undeniable.