Chapter 98 Fractured

Ethan’s POV I had just finished helping my mother clear the dishes from her birthday breakfast when Katelyn texted me: “Change of plans. I’m at a friend’s pool party. Can you bring Lucas here?” I stared at the message for a moment, replied simply: “On the way.” I informed Lucas and he quickly dressed in his swim trunks, buzzing with excitement. “Pool party!” he shouted, practically leaping into the back seat. As I drove, I tried to steady myself. I told myself this was nothing. Just a drop-off. Just a quick hello. But deep down, I knew I was lying to myself. When we arrived, music drifted from the backyard, the sound of splashing water and laughter floating over the hedge. I walked Lucas to the gate, and the moment it swung open, the world on the other side made me freeze. There she was, Katelyn. Light kissed her skin as she stood by the pool, chatting with a tall, broad-shouldered man in tailored swim trunks. Her head tilted back in laughter, hair damp and trailing down her bare shoul