Eloise
I settled on the coach, reaching for the television remote. Today was Lucian’s big day and the event was broadcasted.
This silly illness prevented me from accompanying him but I didn’t care.
Tonight, the world will see my vision. I smiled, feeling the pride in my chest.
The Live broadcast finally began, the spotlight settled on Lucian, as he made his way to the stage, looking impeccably polished in his tailored suit. I had never felt so proud, I couldn’t help but smile and settled deeper in the cushion.
Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining us tonight. Im thrilled to announce the launch of our latest collectiona collection crafted with love, passion, and elegance He said, his deep steady voice echoed through the speakers.
My heart fluttered, Our collection, I repeated in my mind.
Ive been fortunate to work with someone special on this project, someone whose talent and dedication have brought this vision to life Lucian said, his gaze sweeping over the crowd as he spoke.
I held my breath, my pulse quickening with pride and excitement. I could practically feel my name on his lips.
It is my honor to introduce the genius behind this collection Lucian paused, then smiled.
The camera zoomed in as he extended a hand, gesturing off-stage. My smile widened, my fingers tightening on the edge of the couch.
The camera zoomed back to the crowd and a figure emerged from the stage, it was Jennifer, Lucians ex lover and also my step-sister appeared on the screen.
My breath caught in my throat, and from that moment my world began to spin.
She stepped into the spotlight, gliding toward Lucian as if she belonged there as if she had any right to stand on that stage, wearing a dazzling gown that sparkled beneath the lights.
Jewels dripping from her neck and ears. Jewels i had designed.
What!? I exclaimed,my voice barely a breath.
He turned to Jennifer,his eyes beaming, his arm slipping around her waist with a casual intimacy that made my stomach twist.
The way he looked down at her with a softness, a warmth that I haven’t seen in his eyes for once.
Jennifer has been an inspiration to me, both personally and professionally, he said, his voice laced with admiration.
I couldnt imagine anyone more fitting to lead this project with me He continued.
I felt my chest tighten, my breath coming in short, shallow gasps. This can’t be happening. It cant be!
My marriage with Lucian shouldn’t have happened, it was a marriage I accepted for my selfish reasons. My childhood crush came asking for my hand in marriage and I couldn’t miss that opportunity.
I thought after this years, with the child we bore together that our love must’ve awakened but it didn’t.
I was just loving a man that would never love me, a man that was never mine to begin with, a marriage I could’ve rejected and discarded my selfish feelings.
The crowd applauded, their faces lit with admiration and awe. People were clapping for her!for Jennifer.
The woman who had barely even been part of my life, who despised and spited me whenever she pleased, was now basking in the success I had dreamed of.
Tonight is not just the launch of our new project. Its the start of a new chapter. He paused, turning to Jennifer, his eyes full of a disturbingly tender look.
A new chapter for us, and for our future together.
The crowd gasped.
No!! I whispered, horror creeping into my voice as the realization hit me, tears began to form.
Its true, He continued, his tone smooth and practiced, as if he was reading from a script.
Jennifer and I have rekindled our relationship we never had to let go of, and in light of that
My heart pounded so loud I could barely hear his next words.
I am announcing my separation from Eloise. He announced.
The word echoed, causing the tears I had steadied to start streaming.
Separation? He was ending our marriageon live television?
I sat frozen, watching as the camera captured Jennifers coy smile, the way she leaned into him with a sense of possession and victory.
She won, He was her man to begin with, if not for what happened years ago i wouldn’t be in this mess, i wouldn’t be so humiliated for everyone to see.
I couldn’t process the humiliation and shock playing before me. Is this a dream? Someone wake me up from this nightmare
My past decision was now daunting on me.
Trembling, I pressed my hand against my mouth, as if to keep myself from screaming. I wanted to scream but my voice felt hollow and dry.
I could feel my chest pounding, a deep pulsing wound that threatened to tear me apart. This was supposed to be my night, I thought, disbelief mingling with the agony tearing through me. He.. he promised.
To new beginnings, he said, his voice filled with conviction and worse was satisfaction.
The live feed cut back to Lucian, who raised his glass in a toast. He clinked glasses with Jennifer, sealing the moment.
I couldnt move, I couldnt tear my gaze away from the screen as the man I trusted and loved for so long casually discarded me, stripping away everything I thought we had.
My mind spun, a rush of cold sweat appeared on my forehead. The sacrifices, the years wasted, the tears, every ounce of loyalty I had given himit was all crushed underfoot like it had meant nothing.
The camera zoomed in on Lucian and Jennifer one last time before the feed cut out. My screen went dark just like how my world went blank.
Suddenly, I felt a light grip on my nightie. I turned immediatelyit was Max, my Son. His eyes were wide with fear. “Mom, can I go to bed now? he whispered, his voice barely audible.
I knelt to his level and hugged him tight, muffling the crying sounds that almost left my mouth.
Eloise
The pounding bass of the club’s music felt like it was vibrating through my bones. I sat at our usual table.
As we waited for the bartender’s attention, Ava kept up a steady stream of chatter, her voice a comforting background noise.
“And then he had the nerve to say he didn’t like my dress,” she said, rolling her eyes dramatically. “Can you believe that?”
I managed a genuine laugh at that.
“Seriously? Who doesn’t like your dresses?”
“Exactly!” she exclaimed, throwing her hands up in mock exasperation. “Men are idiot.
The bartender finally noticed us, and Ava ordered our drinks. As we waited, I glanced around the club, my eyes drifting over the crowd. That’s when i saw him.
He was tall, strongly built, which made his expensive jacket look even more attractive. Every detail about him his piercing grey eyes, tousled hair, the confident way he movedi couldnt look away.
Ava, who usually remained unfazed by good-looking men, nudged me with a look of pure astonishment.
Gosh, did you see that man? she murmured.
Oh, I do, I said, unable to mask the breathless tone in my voice. My eyes locked on his, his gaze intense.
Then, as if drawn by an invisible string, he began making his way toward us.
Eloise, Ava whispered, grabbing my arm. Hes coming over here
But i couldnt respond. Up close, he was even more strikinggrey focused eyes, a hint of stubble, and a calm expression, as if he was entirely comfortable with the effect he had on people.
Hello, he said, his voice smooth, laced with confidence. Im Mike, nice to meet you
I swallowed, forcing myself to remember how to speak. Eloise
Eloise, he repeated, letting my name roll off his tongue slowly.
A beautiful name for a beautiful woman.
I felt warmth creep up my neck, and not just from the alcohol. The way he looked at me made it easy to forget my recent heartache.
Eloise, Avas voice broke through the haze. I just got an urgent calli need to leave. Will you come with me, or are you good here?
I tore my eyes away from Mike, glancing at her. My instincts told me to go, but the allure of staying here with him was too strong.
Ill be fine, I reassured her, trying to sound composed. I can get a chauffeur.
Avas brows lifted slightly, a knowing look in her eyes, but she nodded.
Alright. Just be careful, okay?
I nodded, the second she left, there was a heat in his stare, something that made me feel dizzy, drawn to him in a way i couldnt explain.
Maybe it was the alcohol, or maybe it was the need to feel something different.
Your friend seems concerned about you, Mike observed, a faint smile playing on his lips.
Shes like that, I replied, the words feeling loose and unfamiliar on my tongue, courtesy of the cocktails.
Well, Im glad she left, he said, his voice dropping to a murmur. It means i get you all to myself.
I felt a thrill ripple through me. I didnt even know this man, but the confidence in his tone, the way he held my gaze, was enough to keep me rooted.
He leaned closer, his hand coming up to lightly touch my arm, a small, intimate gesture that sent a shiver down my spine.
Dance with me?
I nodded, not trusting my voice, and let him lead me to the dance floor. He kept his hand at the small of my back, fingers splayed possessively.
We fell into a rhythm that felt natural, as if we’ve done this a hundred times.
It wasnt long before i found myself leaning into him, my fingers grazing the lapels of his jacket.
The smell of his cologne, the feel of his hand trailing along my back. His eyes never leaving mine, as though he was savouring every reaction, every small gasp that escaped my lips.
Youre beautiful, Eloise, he murmured, his voice a warm whisper against my ear. Its like i dont want this moment to end.
Me either, I whispered back, hardly recognizing the boldness in my own voice.
He pulled me closer, our bodies now fully pressed together, his hand drifting up to cup my jaw. I could feel the heat of his breath as he looked down at me, his lips inches from mine.
Slowly, he leaned in, brushing his lips against mine. It was a gentle kiss, but as i melted against him, he deepened it, his other hand sliding around my waist, holding me.
I pulled back slightly, breathless, my heart pounding. You youre crazy I managed to say, a small smile breaking through my flushed face.
He smiled back, his thumb grazing my cheek.
Only if you want me to be.
I felt a laugh bubble up, light and free, and before i could say anything else, he kissed me again, and for the first time in so long, i felt alive.
His touch was gentle but insistent, igniting something deep within me that had been dormant, forgotten.
As we pulled apart, he looked at me with a smile that was both comforting and devastating.
Let me take you home, he said softly, his voice a tender command.
I nodded, unable to trust myself to speak, knowing that tonight, even if just for one night, I wanted to let go, to lose myself in him. We left the club together, his arm securely around me as if protecting me from the world.
I woke up with a heavy headache, I had barely slept, the sound of car horns blaring outside.
I blinked, my vision slowly clearing, taking in the unfamiliar surroundings. This wasnt Ava’s apartment.
I gasped.
I sniffed the white sheets that smelled faintly of oud and something else I couldnt place. I tried to sit up, my muscles protesting as I propped myself up on an elbow.
As I scanned the room, my eyes settled on a small, curious detail on the chair across from the beda dark, sleek watch, the kind that looked both impossibly expensive laying there.
My breath caught. That wasnt mine. And that definitely wasnt an item i would be bringing into a hotel room.
Did I lodge into the wrong room? Activities from yesterday still blurry.
I grabbed my sunglasses and keys, got dressed and left the hotel room. But as soon as I walked out of the hotel, I was met by the flashing cameras of the paparazzi outside and microphones came thrusting in my face.
The questions came fast and loud.
Eloise, did you know about the affair?
Did you really lose Lucian to your own stepsister?
Was he tired of your workaholic lifestyle?
I could feel my pulse quickening, panic swelling up inside. My first instinct was to push through or to run back inside and wait for them to disappear.
But something held me in place. The pain, the humiliationI lifted my chin, forcing myself to breathe. Why should I be the one hiding? I couldnt let them paint me as a pathetic ex-wife. If they wanted answers, I would give them the truth on my own terms.
Im sure youre all having a field day with this, I began, my voice calm but sharp, but there are some things you need to understand.
A murmur went through the crowd, and I could see the reporters leaning in, hanging on my words.
I wont deny that the betrayal hurts, I continued, keeping my voice steady, but Lucians choices and Jennifers decisions dont define me. Theyre a reflection of who they arenot who I am.
One of the reporters, a woman in her thirties, stepped forward, holding her microphone closer. Are you saying you had no idea about the affair?
My lips twitched into a small, sardonic smile.
Another reporter called out, Do you regret putting so much into your marriage? Do you think thats what drove him away?
I stiffened at the question, feeling the sting of its unfairness.
For a moment, there was silence,then the crowd erupted again, begging for more. Without another word, I turned on my heel and walked away.
I managed to navigate through the paparazzi and slipped into my car.
Eloise
My fingers gripped the steering wheel tightly as I pulled into the driveway. The house that once felt like home, the house I never imagined I would be a visitor in, but I had no time to dwell on that now. I had a missionto take Max and drop the divorce papers for Lucian.
I glanced at the envelope on the passenger seat. The signed divorce papers.
Taking a deep breath, I pushed open the door and stepped out, my heels clicking on the pavement as I walked toward the entrance.
As I stepped inside, whispers from the maids echoed through the hallway.
Isnt that Mrs. Sinclair? I heard one of them murmur, eyes wide with uncertainty.
I thought she wasnt coming back… the other whispered, her voice barely audible.
The words trailing off as I pushed past them.
The house felt different, colder or maybe it was the realization that I had never truly belonged here. I was here for one reason only. To take my son and end this marriage.
I heard voices coming from the living room as i neared. Max was there, but so was Lucian. My breath hitched, a mix of dread and anticipation knotting my stomach. I paused outside the doorway, listening in.
Dad, Maxs small voice echoed from the room, tinged with confusion. Wheres Mom? Why havent I seen her for days?
My heart shattered at that question, He deserves so much better. This was not the definition of the happy family he imagined
My eyes stinging with unshed tears.
Lucian shifted on the couch, his voice cold, almost too calm.
Max, your mom and I arent going to be living together anymore. Shes going to live somewhere else, away from us.
I froze, I knew he was going to say those words but hearing it aloud still felt like a slap to the face.
Why? Does that mean you dont love Mom anymore? Maxs voice, small and innocent, broke through the thick silence.
I closed my eyes for a moment, sliding down the corner, tears streaming down my face. I already knew the answer, but I was hoping that Lucian would spare Max the heartache of knowing the truth.
Your mom and I just… werent happy anymore, Max. But thats okay. Shes moving on. Youre going to have a better mom now, one who will love you even more than she did. He said, without hesitating.
A better mom? The words echoed in my head like a nightmare. How could he refer Jennifer as the best mom, when I’m well and alive?
I had hoped, in some small part of his heart, that Lucian would spare Max from the harsh reality. But no. He was already turning my son against me.
I couldnt hold it back anymore, so I stood up and wiped my tears I let out a shaky breath, fighting the tears that threatened to fall, I stepped into the room.
Lucians eyes locked onto mine for the briefest moment, his face hardened when he saw the divorce papers in my hand.
Without a word, I dropped the papers on the coffee table in front of him. My voice was strained but steady as I looked him dead in the eyes.
Lucian, I said, my voice cracking with the weight of everything I was holding in, Im here to take my son. Hes coming with me.
Max looked up at me, his eyes wide and confused, but i couldn’t just look at him. Not yet. I kept my eyes locked on Lucian, my heart hammering.
For a moment, everything stood still. Maxs small voice trembled as he asked, Mom?
Lucian stood up slowly, a flicker of annoyance crossing his face as he scanned the papers.
He didnt say anything at first, but the silence was thick. Then he continued, his voice cold and dismissive.
We never discussed you will be taking Max, Eloise. Hes my son too!
I clenched my fists, my anger rising.
Youre not even fighting for him, Lucian, I shot back, my voice steady despite the pain. Youve already given up on us. But Im not going to let you keep him from me. Not now, not ever!
Before he could respond, the door to the living room swung open with a loud crash. A voicetoo familiarcut through the conversation.
Eloise, wait!
My heart skipped a beat as I turned. Standing in the doorway, a smug expression on her face, was Jennifer.
Jennifer stepped further into the room, her posture confident as she stood next to Lucian. Im sorry, Eloise, but Lucian and I have things to discuss. You cant just barge in here and take Max. His my son now.
My heart raced with fury and disbelief. I didnt know whether to yell or scream. The audacity. The nerve of both of them. Max? Is suddenly now your son?
Lucian stood beside Jennifer, his eyes flicking between them. Eloise, you need to leave. This isnt the time for this.
I took a step forward, my voice firm as I finally found my footing. How does your conversation have anything to do with Max? I demanded, my gaze locked on both of them.
Im taking him to his grandmothers house. So, you, I said, pointing directly at Lucian, Can deal with whatever mess you’ve created, but youre not keeping him from me.
Jennifer tried to say something, but i cut her off with a sharp look. He’s my son, not yours! Stay out of this.
The look on Jennifer and Lucian’s faces was one of utter shock. I was surprised by my own resilience. I had always feared rebelling against them, but now I no longer have to.
Maxs small voice echoed from the corner. Mom?
My heart broke as I turned to him. I knelt down to his level, taking his small hand in mine. Its okay, sweetheart, I said softly. Were going to go stay with Grandma for a little while
Eloise
My phone buzzed incessantly on the nightstand, I groaned, my eyes still heavy with sleep. The dim light of the morning filtered through the curtains, but I didnt want to get upnot yet.
With a reluctant sigh, I reached for my phone and looked at the screen. Ava’s name flashed on the display, and my heart dropped into my stomach for a brief moment.
“Ava, it’s barely seven in the morning,” I mumbled, pressing the phone to my ear. “This better be important.”
“Good morning to you too,” Avas voice came through with her usual cheerfulness, unfazed by the early hour. “I know you’re probably still in bed, but get up, girl! The gala is tonight! You cant miss it again, not like last year!”
I rolled over, pulling the covers up over my head to block out the light. I could already hear the excitement in her voice.
Ugh, I know, I know. I just need a little more sleep. The whole thing gives me the heebie-jeebies.
Ava laughed on the other end.
Please. Youve been cooped up in that apartment for days. Youre going to need more than a little beauty sleep to deal with it. Plus, I know youre secretly dying to look amazing and show Lucian that youre fine without him. She said,
My heart fluttered at the mention of Lucians name. It had been a while since I saw him and I wasn’t sure I was ready for it the rumours that would come with it. He would be at the galahe always was. And so would Jennifer.
Yeah, Ill be fine, I muttered, sitting up on the edge of the bed and running a hand through my messy hair. But just the thought of facing them again I dont know if I can handle it.
Avas voice softened.
I know, Eloise. Its been rough, but you cant keep hiding from him. This is your chance to show that youre moving on, and youre better than that old life with him.
I paused, taking a deep breath. I had been avoiding Lucian for weeks, but now, it was time to face the inevitable. Ava was right. I shouldn’t be the one hiding.
Alright, alright. Ill go. But I swear, if I see Jennifer there, I might lose it.
Ava chuckled.
Trust me, shes going to be there. But you wont let her get to you. Youre going to look so good, like you’ve always do
I totally agree I shouldn’t be worried about them now but myself.
Alright, fine. What time should I be ready?
“Lets aim for 6:30. Well leave early so we dont miss the main event this time. Well have plenty of time to make an entrance
I could practically hear Ava’s grin through the phone. Fine. Youre the boss. Ill be ready. I replied.
Good, Ava said, her voice light. Now get up, Eloise. Youve got a party to rock tonight.
Alright, alright. Im up. Ill see you at 6:30. I said, smiling.
Cant wait, Ava said, and hung up.
I sat in bed for a few more moments, staring at my phone. I took a deep breath.
It was inevitable. I could already feel the old emotions risinganger, betrayal and immediately I buried it.
The evening air was cool as I stepped out of the car, the lights of the gala reflecting wealth and prestige.
My heels clicked against the marble floor as I entered, it was every bit as glamorous as I had expectedshimmering gowns, tuxedos, and the scent of expensive perfume lingering.
Ava, as always, was beside me, dressed to perfection in a sleek black gown, her arm linked with me as we made a grand entrance.
You look stunning, Ava whispered, eyes scanning the room. Lucians already here, of course. And Jennifers not far behind, Im sure.
I nodded, my nerves creeping up my spine. The thought of seeing Lucian after everything that had happened made my insides twist. But i had to keep my composure.
“Don’t let them get to you,” Ava added, catching my gaze. “You look amazing. Theyll be the ones wishing they had what youve got now.”
I forced a smile, but I couldn’t shake the feeling of Lucians presence looming over the event the headlines.
As I made my way through the crowd, my eyes scanned the room as elegant as ever, when I suddenly locked eyes with a man across the room.
His presence was commanding, I felt my heart skip a beat.
As if on cue, he began walking toward me, his gaze fixed on mine.
Eloise True, isnt it? His voice was deep, smooth, and slightly amused. I have to say, You surprised me
Eloise Sinclair I corrected him. I’m divorced now. I do not have to bear Lucian’s last name now.
I blinked, unsure whether to be flattered or alarmed. I’m sorry, do I know you?
He smiledslightly teasing, but with an air of confidence that was impossible to ignore. Yes you do, have you forgotten?
I raised an eyebrow, trying to mask the intrigue I felt. He looked familiar but I can’t seem to remember where I knew him from.
Oh wow really? Mind to remind me? I asked, my tone soft.
My heart raced as the man before me leaned in, his eyes catching mine with a spark of recognition.
Sure! Since you cant seem to remember, he replied, chuckling. My lips parted, surprised at the directness of his words. He seemed amused, his confidence unnerving.
We met at a club two days ago, remember? It’s me, Mike, he said, his voice smooth and flattering, as if he already knew hed left an impression.
My cheeks flushed, mortified. Wait Mike? Mike?
I felt my pulse quicken under his intense gaze, and I struggled to remember him. I could feel my cheeks warm as I mumbled.
Of course, I remember…
But his gaze lingered, piercing through my excuse.
Do you? he asked, a dark gleam in his eyes that made my stomach twist.
There was a confident calmness about him that I couldnt place, like he knew something I didnt.
Before I could reply, a familiar voice chimed in beside me.
Eloise! There you are, Ava interrupted, breaking the tension. She held up her phone. Could you take some photos for me? The lighting here is perfect.
Sure, I managed, relieved for the distraction.
I took her phone and positioned the camera. But Ava’s gaze drifted past me, her eyes narrowing in recognition as she spotted Mike.
Oh, hey! Werent you the one at the club with Eloise two days ago? Ava asked, her voice filled with casual surprise.
My heart skipped a beat. Avas words brought a flood of scattered memories, fragments of that night flashing before me. The laughter, the thrill, his hand on mine.
Mike? He was that Mike!
My pulse quickened as the pieces came together.
He tilted his head, an amused smirk crossing his face as he watched the realization dawn on me. Finally remembering, are we?
Eloise
A week ago..
A feeling of warmth settled over me as I looked up, only to realise it was Mikes arm wrapped around me for balance, his face shadowed but unmistakably kind as he settled me on the bed.
The nightclubs pulsating bass still echoed in my ears as I blinked in the dim lighting of the hotel room, the room swaying lightly.
How did I get here? I can’t tell. But am I enjoying this? Yes I am.
“All men are trash, you know?” I muttered, clinking my glass to his in a bitter toast.
Is that so? He chuckled, his gaze soft and unintrusive.
Not… not all, maybe, I admitted reluctantly. But the kind I keep meeting? Yeah. Definitely trash. I laughed, though there was no humor in my voice.
I had been talking too much, I know, but it was as if once I start, there is no stopping.
Seven years of marriage, I continued, shaking my head, Gone in an instant, and for what? A spark with an old lover, my stepsister! I looked away, focusing on the golden lights. Turns out I was… disposable.
Eloise… Mike started, his voice low, a bit pained.
I shrugged, too weary to cover my scars with pride.
Im sorry. You didn’t have to hear this.
But he only nodded, a reassuring smile curving his lips.
Maybe I dont mind.
I let myself fall back onto the plush bed, a rare careless laugh escaping me.
I must be quite the mess, I mumbled, half to myself.
He sat down beside me.
Not at all. Youre just feeling what youre supposed to feel. No one has the right to take that from you. He replied, his face a mix of concern.
His words, gentle and without judgement, felt like balm on a wound I didn’t even know I was carrying.
Moments after, I watched him rise, preparing to leave.
Unexpectedly, and before I could think twice, I reached for his hand, holding onto him tightly.
Sor-ry, didn’t mean to My voice was smaller than I wanted it to be, I wanted him to stay but I didn’t want to push it.
He looked down at me, surprise flashing across his face, but it was quickly replaced by something elsesomething warmer, something deeper.
Slowly, he settled back down, his hand moving to cup her cheek.
If you want me to stay, I will, He said.
I nodded, my heart pounding as my eyes held his.
Yes, I whispered, my voice barely audible.
We were so close, his face only inches from mine. He leaned forward, brushing his lips against mine, the warmth of my breath mingling with his in a gentle, tentative dance.
His hands slid over my shoulders, tracing my arms, his touch featherlight.
I breathed in sharply, feeling his fingertips press slightly firmer against my skin, grounding me, a reminder this was real.
Our kiss deepened, I felt his lips trail from my mouth to my jawline, neck, each kiss sending a shiver down my spine. I clung to him, my arms wrapping around his neck.
Tell me to stop, he murmured against my skin, his voice low, thick with restraint.
Dont, I replied, almost breathless. I met his gaze, my eyes daring him to go further.
THE PRESENT..
I could feel my cheeks flush with embarrassment, I was mortified, heat rising to my cheeks as I darted my eyes anywhere but his face.
Of course, he noticed.
Are you blushing? He said, his tone playful, his smile a hint of mischief, but his gaze softened as it settled on me.
I could practically feel his amusement radiating, which only made my cheeks burn hotter.
Absolutely not, I whispered, brushing a strand of hair behind my ear.
Oh? He leaned in closer, just enough to catch my gaze, his eyes sparkling.
Because it looks like youre remembering something.
Well, I I hesitated, flustered. But there was no escape; He looked far too entertained by my embarrassment.
But then a familiar, unwelcoming voice broke into the moment.
Enjoying yourself, Eloise?
My heart sank, I turned to see Lucian standing there, a mocking smirk playing on his lips. He looked impeccably polished in his dark suit, as always, his appearance all perfect lines and controlled arrogance.
I steeled herself, reminding myself to stay calm.
Surprised? he drawled, his eyes narrowing as he took in the scene, his gaze lingering on Mike for just a second before his attention returned to me.
Seems like you have plenty of time for parties these days. Whos watching Max tonight, hmm? Or did you leave him with someone else so you could play socialite?
I could feel my knots twist, my anger bubbling inside. I met his gaze directly, forcing my voice to stay calm.
Someone? Max is with his grandma! And since when did you care so much about him?
He laughed, a low sound that had once charmed me but now felt empty and cruel.
His grandma right! He shook his head, a mocking smile still in place. He muttered something like See why I never wanted you to take him with you.
I gritted my teeth.
At least his grandma is always there for him, Lucian. Can you say the same? When was the last time you actually spent time with Max, beyond just a photo op? Do you even know what his favourite colour is?
His smirk faltered, only for a second.
I have obligations, Eloise. You knew that when we got married.
Obligations? I couldnt help the sarcasm that slipped into my tone. More like excuses. Obligations that keep you away from your son almost every time, you couldn’t even squeeze him between your business trips and affairs.
Funny how you suddenly seem to have a lot to say about whats best for Max.” He said, his smile sharp.
Before I could respond, I felt Mike step closer, his silent support was as reassuring as it was unexpected.
The way he looked at Lucian was cold, assessing, like he was quietly evaluating every word and expression.
Lucians eyes finally shifted, taking in Mike fully for the first time, though there was no hint of recognition on his face.
And whos this? he asked, his tone dripping with faux politeness. Your new friend?
None of your business! I retorted, my tone sharp.
Wow! Just wow! Lucians tone was anything but sincere, his gaze flicking between the two of us with a hint of disdain.
Eloise?”
I turned and there stood Jennifer, eyes glinting with barely concealed malice. Her hand rested casually on Lucians arm, her posture relaxed as if I was going to snatch her man.
My eyes narrowed as Jennifer continued, her voice dripping with sarcasm.
Wow, Eloise, it didn’t take you quite long to find a replacement. Just a week after your divorce and already moving on?
↓ ↓ Download the Novel Master app, Search 【 302687 】reads the whole book. ↓ ↓
NovelShort
