Chapter 9 That threw me for a loop . That many people living on Dads land ? Just how much did they own ? See ? She doesnt know the first thing about this place . Why are we even asking ? Ethan was being such a jerk about it , even Logan looked like he wanted him to shut up . Actually , I do have something to say . I snapped back . Oh , please share with the class , Emily . Vickys voice was dripping with attitude . She was really starting to get on my nerves , acting like Queen Bee when she didnt even know me . I took a sip of water , swallowed my food , and sat up straight . Few questions first . How big is this property and whats the total headcount ? Dad smiled . Weve got about 400 acres , with around 150 people total living here . Where do they go for school and stuff ? Dads smile got bigger . They bus into the city about forty minutes away . Well theres your answer . Instead of dropping cash on games and whatever , maybe invest in stuff thatll actually help these kids long term . Get them into farming , gardening that whole thing . Build a library give them somewhere to study , get tutoring . You know , stuff thatll actually make a difference . Everyone just stared at me , but Dad was grinning ear to ear . So you want us to waste space on a library when kids these days dont even read ? Dylan finally spoke up , surprising me since hed been quiet all dinner . No , I want to invest in stuff thatll actually help everyone here long term . Get kids into things thatll make this place better . Taking care of our own land means survival . Building up smart kids means we wont have to depend on nearby cities to keep us going . 2.67 % Dad was totally vibing with what I was saying , and even Vicky looked kind of impressed . But Ethan ? He just glared at me before pushing his chair back and walking out . I stared after him . Did I mess up or something ? Nah , Ryan smiled , hes just got a lot going on . Its not you , Yeah right . The look on Vickys face said different . When she got up to follow him , Dad shook his head at her . Great Id definitely stepped in it somehow . Think Im gonna head out . Of course , Emily . Thanks for coming , Dad said as I got up and headed for the back door . I told you not to let her come . I heard Ethans voice , all quiet like . You know I couldnt do anything about it , Ethan . Vicky sounded annoyed . I knew I shouldnt eavesdrop , but they were talking about me , so … Hes your mate , Vicky . You could say something , but you wont . Ethan snapped . Mate ? What the heck ? Ethan , thats enough . You do not talk to me like that . Ethan sighed . Just cant think straight with her around . Well , maybe make her want to leave . I dont like this situation either . Seriously ? What was Vickys problem with me ? I hadnt done anything to her . I pushed off the wall and headed for the door , but stopped to look right at them . Their faces ? Priceless like deer in headlights . Thanks for the warm welcome . Laying the sarcasm on thick , I walked out into the night , heading back to my cottage sanctuary . After all that drama , all I wanted was some tea and a movie . 2.84 % Get 5 > Menu No way were they gonna run me off that easy . I had way too much at stake here , and if they wanted to play rough ? Game on . In "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die" by CrushReel, Zoe Hale takes a daring step by marrying Ashton Cross, a man under suspicion for her sister's mysterious demise. As their relationship evolves, hidden truths unravel, intertwining love and suspense in this captivating romance novel. Exploring the complexities of loyalty and deception, the story delves deep into Zoe's quest for justice while navigating the unexpected twists of her heart. The enigmatic bond between Zoe and Ashton unfolds against a backdrop of secrets and revelations, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with each turn of the page. Set in a blend of romance and drama, "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die" stands out for its intricate character dynamics and the seamless fusion of passion and intrigue. With every chapter, CrushReel skillfully crafts a narrative that immerses readers in a world where love confronts darkness, leaving them yearning for more. Discover the enthralling saga of Zoe and Ashton, available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in this unique tale that defies conventions and promises an unforgettable literary experience.