Chapter 6

The next day, I timed my descent down the stairs. Lucas was leaning against the sofa, meticulously instructing Martha about the evening's party arrangements.

Broken strands of dark hair fell across his forehead, giving the usually composed man a hint of youthful carelessness.

Brittany, in a white cocktail dress, leaned casually against the armrest of the sofa. They were so close they were almost touching.

The suitcase was heavy, clattering loudly against the marble stairs. The few people in the living room paused, looking up at me. "Excuse me," I offered a polite, strained smile, trying to lift the heavy case higher.

Lucas took a few steps forward, pointing at my suitcase. "What do you think you’re doing?"

His expression was as indifferent as ever, as if asking about something trivial. If not for the noise, and the fact it was Vivian’s birthday, he probably wouldn’t have even bothered to ask.

I didn't want to talk much with him, so I vaguely replied, "Just some work to take care of. I’ll be gone for a few days."

Lucas stepped closer, his expression cold. "Today is my mom’s birthday."

"It’s urgent business. I’ve already spoken with Vivian about it."

I tried to step around him, but he stood still, blocking my path, radiating displeasure. "When are you coming back?"

I won't be returning. The words were on the tip of my tongue, but I couldn't bring myself to say them. Saying something like that in this situation felt highly inappropriate.

It was Brittany who spoke up, smiling sweetly: "Don't you usually make a birthday cake for Vivian every year?"

"Just because Lucas said a few things to you the other day, now you’re intentionally skipping her birthday?"

"Anyone who didn't know better would think the Hayes family had done something truly awful to you."

I pretended not to hear her words, pulled my suitcase, and quickly walked past both of them.

Lucas wouldn't let me go. He grabbed my wrist, his grip like iron. A suffocating pressure filled the air, as if the temperature in the room had plummeted.