Chapter 153 The Rival’s Shadow

Ethan’s POV The restaurant doors slid open, letting out a wave of warm air and laughter. I stepped forward with Lucas, his small hand tight in mine. We were just about to walk inside when the door swung wider and Katelyn stepped out, Matthew right beside her. Lucas stopped short. His whole face lit up the second he saw her. “Mom!” he blurted, ready to run straight for her, but I caught his arm quickly. “Wait, Lucas,” I murmured, my tone gentle but firm. “Let’s give Mom her space tonight. She’s with a friend.” He frowned, looking up at me, obviously unhappy. “But…” I squeezed his shoulder. “Remember what we talked about. Let’s not interrupt. We’ll see her soon.” Lucas’s lips pressed into a pout, but he nodded. He took a step back, his eyes never leaving Katelyn’s face, as if hoping she’d come over anyway. I looked up, pretending to be casual, but the truth was my heart twisted when I saw her standing with Matthew. I turned Lucas gently away. “Come on, let’s get a table,” I said. I didn’