Chapter 91

Victoria spotted McNeil and Violet beneath the fireworks, Curtis, Isaac, and Marcus nearby, with little Max in tow.

From a distance, the group was laughing and enjoying themselves, the night alive with their easy camaraderie.

"Dad, Ms. Marchand, you're out here setting off fireworks and didn't even invite me."

Gwyneth's voice carried a hint of indignation.

Violet crouched down in front of her, her eyes twinkling. "Weren't you the one who said you had plans tonight?"

McNeil had asked Gwyneth earlier what she was up to, and she'd said she was going to see her mom. She never mentioned this to Violet, only saying she had a craft project and needed to look something up on the computer.

She'd even whispered in Violet's ear, promising not to intrude on her "special time" alone with Dad.

Violet saw right through her little scheme but chose not to call her out.

Isaac couldn't help but ask, "It's pretty late, Gwyneth. Who brought you here?" "My mom, of course."

Gwyneth replied without missing a beat. The three men-except for McNeil- immediately turned to look in the direction where Victoria stood.

streetlamp behind Victoria cast her face in shadow; no one could see

body tense,

If she came over to say hello, what would happen if she and McNeil were

call her over?"

mysterious, never-before-seen wife. Who wouldn't want to

stubbornness, yet this woman had not only married

go invite her?" Isaac offered, almost jumping with anticipation. Violet's face

them off.

on, McNeil. You run into your wife and don't even ask her to join us? Besides, you and Violet are just friends now. Don't let her

there was no stopping

a moment, about to leave, when

message unmistakable. He didn't want her to show up in front of his friends-not to protect her, but to shield Violet from gossip, to prevent

How typical.

was done caring what he

"Fine," Victoria replied.

into the night. Isaac, still watching the spot where she'd stood, let out

squinted; something about that silhouette

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