Chapter 261

“Are you not coming?” Lily had already stepped out of the car with Danish when she noticed David was still sitting behind the wheel. The engine was running, his hands resting on the steering wheel, but he hadn’t moved to get out. Something about it felt wrong. She turned back and looked at him. David hesitated. For a brief second, it looked like he wanted to say something else. His lips parted, then pressed together again. He avoided her eyes. “I’m sorry,” he finally said. “I have a meeting. I can’t come tonight. I’ll see you tomorrow.” Lily felt the words hit her chest harder than she expected. She let out a slow breath, biting down on her lower lip, forcing herself to stay quiet. She didn’t trust her mouth right now. If she spoke, she was sure something sharp and regretful would come out. So this was it. He was avoiding her. The thought made her chest tighten with frustration. All day he had been distant. Silent. Cold in that calm way that hurt more than anger ever could. Without mea