Chapter 31

On Saturday, Howard went out of his way to have the maid prepare an elaborate dinner. Rachel and Sarah watched enviously. Howard had never been this eager to please anyone before. Only Hugh received this treatment. Serena arrived with Hugh as planned. She carried two shopping bags, having browsed a few stores while waiting for him. Hugh was dressed in a tailored suit as if he had come straight from a banquet. The faint scent of liquor lingered on him. "You skipped someone else's grand opening, but you sure didn't hold back on the drinks. Eat something later to sober up." Ignoring the others, Serena led him to a seat. Hugh massaged his temples, staying silent. The two sat down as if no one else existed. Howard, momentarily at a loss, signaled for Rachel and Sarah to sit down as well. He then instructed the maid to serve the rest of the dishes. A lavish feast was served. Seeing that Hugh wasn't eating and seemed to be resting with his eyes closed, Howard had no choice but to s