Chapter 26

After ending the call, Kathleen felt helpless. She turned, noticing that Shawn and Henry had finished their chess game and were now quietly sipping their drinks. Reflecting on Judy and Henry's earlier words, Kathleen suddenly felt fortunate about her situation. At that moment, a maid approached and informed Henry, "Mr. Vance, Mr. and Mrs. Page are here." Henry glanced at Shawn, clearly displeased. "It's Christmas Eve. Can't they give us some peace?" Shawn appeared completely unconcerned as he stood up. He glanced at Kathleen, signaling her to follow him. "Are they Ryan's parents?" she whispered. "Yes," he replied. Kathleen couldn't help but think how rude it was for them to show up uninvited, especially on Christmas Eve. When they entered the living room, Judy was already sitting on the couch across from a couple in their early 50s, with Ryan sitting stiffly to the side. Upon seeing Henry and Shawn enter, the Pages quickly stood up. When Ryan didn't budge, his mother, Elena F