Chapter 82 Beneath the Surface

Katelyn’s POV After yesterday’s call with Ethan, part of me wanted to cancel all my plans, bury my phone beneath a pillow, and just spend the day curled up in bed with Lucas. His presence had become my safest place, my only refuge from the mess Ethan kept dragging back into my life. But I had already promised to bring Lucas to the financial summit. He had been excited about it all week, counting down the days with sticky notes on the fridge. I wasn’t about to let my past, or Ethan’s chaos ruin another day of our lives. I forced myself to get up and get dressed. I chose a sleek navy dress with a structured waist and subtle gold buttons. It wasn’t the flashiest outfit I owned, but it made me feel grounded, confident, in control. Lucas sat quietly on the edge of the bed, his tiny feet dangling, waiting for me to help him dress. “I want to look like a boss today,” he said, kicking his feet as I handed him his little blazer. “You already are one,” I replied, smiling despite myself. I dresse