chapter1030

"Take your pie with you," William said, his voice calm but firm.

Benjamin was so angry he could hardly see straight. He bent down, grabbed the box off the floor, and stormed out with his family trailing behind him.

As soon as they were gone, Mabel let out a breath and turned to the others, her face full of apology. "I'm really sorry about that."

Damien's family had been enjoying the drama and looked like they wanted to throw in a few more snarky comments, but after glancing at Connor, they kept quiet. Sometimes, you just had to swallow your pride when you needed someone's help.

Lydia spoke up, her voice gentle but steady. "Aunt Mabel, don't let it get to you. They think just because Jackson got promoted, they can run wild. They have no idea how the world works. It's better you stood up to them now, before they really mess things up and drag you with them."

Mr. Robinson let out a quiet sigh. "Lydia's right. If they keep acting like this, sooner or later, something bad is bound to happen.

Dinner wrapped up and everyone started heading home. Mabel had guest rooms ready for Wendy and her daughters, but they turned her down, saying they'd already booked a hotel. Their driver picked them up, and off they went. Damien stuck around, since he still had business to discuss with Mr. Robinson.

Lydia had planned to head home with her parents and brothers, but Connor had other ideas. He grabbed her hand and led her straight to his car without giving her a chance to argue.

Caspian, seeing that, offered to drive Lucinda home himself. Lucinda shot him a cold look and shook her head. It's okay. There's space in my family's car. It's late. You should get going."

Lucinda was in a terrible mood. The whole night, she and Caspian hadn't even been properly introduced. Damien's family acted like they didn't exist. There was not even a hello or a single question. It made Lucinda want to scream.

Caspian knew Lucinda hated being pushed, and since she's so insistent, he could only nod. Alright, Lucinda. I'll come pick you up for school tomorrow, then."

Tomorrow was the first day back at school for everyone.

Lucinda shook her head again. It's fine. The family driver will take me in the morning."

Caspian could tell she was upset. Maybe it was because he wasn't strong enough yet. If he were, maybe Lucinda would have more to be proud.

Lucinda, I know I'm not there yet, but I promise I'll work hard and get stronger," he said, his eyes steady with determination.

Lucinda needed Caspian to be there for her, and though she could barely muster it, she forced a little smile. "I believe you. Get home safe, okay?"

"Okay."

As soon as Lydia got in the car, Connor pulled her close, wrapping his arms around her like he never wanted to let go. "School starts tomorrow."

Once classes started, seeing each other wouldn't be so easy anymore.

Lydia nodded. "Yeah."

So much had happened over the break. It felt like a lifetime had passed.

"I'll take you to school tomorrow morning," Connor said. "Then I have to leave for a work trip for a while."

Lydia knew how busy Connor always was. She just nodded. "Alright." After a second, she asked, "So what do you think Damien's family wants with you?"

Connor thought it over for a

moment. "If it's about our uncle, they probably want me to put in a good

They want his support to help

Wnce Theo become the next king."

Lydia looked at him, one eyebrow raised. Our' uncle?"

Connor grinned. "Isn't my uncle your uncle too?"

Lydia's cheeks colored just a little. "Not yet."

Connor put on a wounded expression. Are you planning to use me and then dump me?"

Lydia pretended to think it over. "If someone better comes along... maybe."

Connor instantly hugged her tighter, letting out a little huff. I'd like to see anyone try."

Then he leaned in and kissed her, deep and lingering. Up front, Aiden almost choked trying not to look.. Seriously, was this kind of scene even legal for a single guy like him to witness?

When Connor finally let her go, he still looked like he wanted more, but Lydia pushed him away gently.

Lydia, I'm heading out on a work trip tomorrow," he said, moving in for another kiss.

Lydia pushed him back again,

teasing, "Theard Prince Theo is into

men. Word is, he once bragged to

his friends that he'd win over a certain major general from our country."