Chapter 35

Doris had just finished returning Chris’ greeting, her voice light and familiar like they’d known each other for ages. Lilian didn’t even try to mask her stare. She stood frozen in place, taking them both in—Doris, still casually standing by the door, and Chris, standing there like this was his moment.

Her stomach turned.

Apparently, she was the only one left out of the loop. Would she have even known about Patricia if Doris hadn't dropped by? Or would Chris have kept sending his agents in the dark, like a puppeteer pulling strings behind velvet curtains?

She rose to her feet, her movements slow and deliberate. She turned to Chris.

“I appreciate what you’re trying to do,” she began, her tone razor-sharp, “but it’s not necessary. I have everything sorted.”

Lilian’s voice didn't waver, but deep down she felt it. That hollow ache of knowing this man wasn’t here because he cared—he was here because of obligation. Because once, long ago, their lives had been tangled in vows and signatures.