81. Not What You Think

The morning had started peacefully, with Peyton, Carver, and Ava nestled in the living room, nursing cups of coffee. The TV played quietly in the background, a habitual routine that gave their mornings a semblance of normalcy. But the tranquility was short-lived.

As the news broadcast switched to a live scene outside the courthouse, their attention was abruptly captured. Handcuffed and visibly furious, Lana was being led out by the authorities. Her vehement outburst towards the media sent a chill through the room. She was accusing Carver, imploring journalists to dive into his past, promising them scandalous revelations. The scene on the TV was chaotic, with reporters swarming around Lana, capturing her every word.

Carver, who had been leaning against the kitchen counter, coffee cup in hand, watched the screen with a stoic expression. As Lana’s accusations filled the room, he set his cup down with a soft clink, his jaw tightening. “Well, fuck,” he muttered, more to himself than to P