Chapter 57

Lila Settling into my seat, I picked up my fork. The scent of rosemary and thyme tickled my nose, the familiar aroma of Joan’s roasted chicken filling the room. Yet, my appetite was as temperamental as a spoiled car wheel, sputtering and stalling with each passing moment. The lively chatter around the dining table. Joan’s soft laugh, Ronan’s booming voice, and the occasional clink of utensils should have been comforting. Should have been. I released a heavy breath. As I stared at the carrot, Caden’s dismissive tone echoed in my ears, his stony expression vivid in my mind. The cold knot of anger twisted deeper with every replay. I stabbed a piece of carrot with unnecessary force, letting out a sharp exhale as the memory nagged at me like a persistent thorn. “Are you okay, Lila?” Joan’s voice was gentle, her head tilted slightly as she studied me from across the table. Her blonde curls framed her soft face, concern flickering in her blue eyes. I forced a tight smile, not trusting my voic