To Try Again

 

Harold leaned forward slightly, intrigued. But before she could continue, her eyes flicked toward the approaching waiter.

Rather than waiting, she dropped the bomb.

"How come you never investigated who I am?" she asked suddenly.

Harold tilted his head, clearly caught off guard. "Pardon?" He let out a small laugh, confused. "What kind of question is that?"

Catherine took a deep breath. She had wanted to tell him this before he heard it elsewhere.

"You'll hear it in the news soon," she said, her voice measured. "But I wanted you to know firsthand."

Harold's brows furrowed slightly.

"I am Catherine Glover," she continued, watching his face carefully. "Daughter of Ragland Glover and—" She exhaled. "I've been named the next heir of the Glover family."

Silence.

Harold's eyes widened, his fingers tightening around the cup. His mouth parted slightly, as if he wanted to say something—but nothing came out.