Chapter 30 I dont owe you an explanation , Cole , she said , her tone calm but sharp . And frankly , Im done pretending to care about what you or any of Arnolds friends think of me . Youve made your opinions perfectly clear over the years . Cole blinked , clearly taken aback by her boldness . Whats gotten into you ? he muttered , his usual confidence faltering Nothing has gotten into me . Nora said , her voice unwavering . Tve simply realized that I dont need to tolerate your condescension anymore . For years , I put up with your sneers and your judgment , thinking it was easier to keep the peace . But now ? I dont have to . Im done bending over hackward for people who only see what they want to see Coles mouth opened as if to retort , but no words camE OUL He wasnt used to this side of Nora , the woman who had always seemed so quiet , so docile , was now standing her ground with a calm yet fery determination You think you know everything . Nora continued , taking a step closer . Youve made up your mind about me without ever bothering to know me . And honestly ? That says more about you than it does about me . For a moment , Cole was silent , his smirk replaced by something resembling surprise . Then , almost grudgingly , he said , Well , look at you . Didnt think you had it in you Noras lips curved into a faint smile , though it didnt reach her eyes . People change , Cole . Maybe you should try it sometime , Without waiting for a response , she turned and walked away , her steps steady and deliberate . Cole watched Nora walk away , his jaw clenched tightly . His ego was bruised , and a simmering anger stirred in his chest . How dare she speak to me like that ? he thought , his mind replaying the sharp words she had thrown at him . For years , Nora had been meek and unassuming , quietly taking the subtle jabs and dismissive attitudes of Arnolds circle . To see her stand tall and challenge him was as infuriating as it was unexpected . He took a step forward , intending to call her back and put her in her place , but before he could speak , her phone buzzed . Nora paused , glanced at the screen , and stepped aside to answer the call . Hello ? she said , her voice calm yet distant , as though their encounter had barely fazed her . Cole scowled , watching her retreat further away , her attention now completely diverted to whoever was on the other end of the line . His opportunity to confront her slipped through his fingers , leaving him standing alone , seething with frustration . Noras voice softened slightly as she listened to the person on the call . Harrison ? What is it ? On the o e other end , Harrisons voice was light and cheerful . Nora ! Are you free ? I was thinking we could grab a late night snack . I know this great little place nearby . Nora glared at the time on her phone and hesitated for a moment . The encounter with Cole load left a sour taste in her mouth , and she didnt feel like being alone with her thoughts A meal with Harrison , even with his endless chatter , might be just the distraction she needed . re , she said , her voice softening . Where should I meet you ?! After jotting down the address , she lung up and walked toward the restaurant , shaking off the lingering tension from her earlier conversation 11:57 After Heft , Alpha father and son went en Chapter 30 The restaurant was small but cozy , its warm lighting and rustic decor offering a comforting atmosphere Nora slid into the booth across from Harrison , who was already animatedly recounting the race he had just attended . You shouldve seen Sierra . Harrison gushed , his eyes shining with excitement . She was incredible ! The way she took that last turn it was like she was born for it . Everyone went wild ! Nora offered a small smile , nodding as she listened Harrisons enthusiasm was contagious , even if she couldnt fully share it at the moment . You okay ? Harrison suddenly asked , his voice laced with concern . He leaned forward , studying her closely . You look a little pale . Nora hesitated , not wanting to make a fuss , but the truth was she felt slightly lightheaded Her hands trembled faintly under the table , and she realized she hadnt eaten anything since early afternoon . In her rush to find Harrison at the race , she had completely ignored her own needs . she lied , but her voice lacked conviction . Harrison raised an eyebrow , unconvinced . Nora , d dont give me that . W Whats wrong ? With a sigh , she admitted , I think my blood sugars a little low . I havent had anything to eat since lunch . Harrisons expression shifted to one of immediate concern . What ? Why didnt you say something sooner ? Wait here .. Ill get us something quick C Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!