chapter1138

Lucinda never expected Lydia to call her out so directly. Her cheeks went bright red, completely out of her control.

"What are you even talking about? If Connor came home, he'd tell you first, right? How would I know?"

"Then why are you so interested in my business?

Lucinda was instantly stunned into silence, looking like she'd been deeply hurt. I was just... worried about you, that's all."

"Yeah, sure. We all know whether you really care or not. I've got things to do. I'll be back later. Lydia swung her bag over her shoulder and walked right out of the building.

Lucinda could almost feel the awkwardness hanging in the air. Suddenly, everyone's eyes were on her. She didn't know what to do, so she looked over at her

grandfather, her voice small and pitiful. "Grandpa, I really was just worried about her. It's just so late already."

Once upon a time, Kylie and Cameron would have believed Lucinda was being genuine. But after everything she'd done with Grace, all those times they schemed to follow and set up Lydia, their trust in Lucinda was gone. Now, whenever she spoke to Lydia, they felt there was something off about her tone, like she was trying to stir things up or make people see Lydia differently. The more Kylie and Cameron thought about it, the more unsettled they felt. They had raised Lucinda themselves, spoiled her, loved her. The last thing they wanted was for jealousy to change her into someone they didn't recognize.

Lydia drove to the hotel where she and Carter had planned to meet. Carter, ever the gentleman, thought it would look weird for the two of them to be alone in a private room, so he booked a table by the window in a quiet corner. That way, there'd be no misunderstandings and they could talk without being overheard. He really was thoughtful, Lydia had to admit.

She liked his arrangement. He definitely knew how to treat people right.

"Miss Norwood, here's the menu. Please order whatever you want."

Even the server was surprised when Carter called her by name like that. She'd figured they were a couple, or at least in that flirty stage where things might become something more. But Carter's tone was so formal. The server glanced at Lydia-she looked so young, like she could still be in college.

Lydia could feel the server's curious gaze and decided to clear the air. "Just call me Lydia, it's fine."

Carter let out a nervous little cough. "Okay. Lydia."

The server stilNooked confused, but

she left them alone, probably wondering if this was some new way of dating. Carter really did look good that night. The warm, yellow lights in the restaurant made everything, glow softly, especially Carter's white suit. He held the menu with those long, graceful fingers, turning to Lydia and speaking in a gentle voice. "Lydia, this place is famous for its foie gras and beef wellington. Do you want to try either of those?"

Lydia nodded, smiling just enough. Sure, that sounds good."

Once they'd ordered, Carter brought up the painting.

"My mom loved it as soon as she saw it. We haven't shown it to my grandpa yet.

We're planning to surprise him with it on his birthday."

"I'm really glad she liked it."

Carter hesitated, looking a little uncomfortable. "Lydia, the painting is really valuable. My mom and I both feet weird just accepting a gift. Please, let us pay you

something for it. At least let us cover your time."

Lydia just laughed. "Seriously, you don't have to. It's a gift. Take it."

They were still talking when a loud, angry voice interrupted them from nearby.

"Carter!"

Lydia frowned. That voice sounded all too familiar. She turned and raised her eyebrows in surprise.

Rosie was striding right toward

them, her steps full of attitude, her

face set in a furious glare. She looked stunning in a deep red, off-the shoulder evening dress, her hair styled in perfect curls diamond earrings sparkling in the light. And right behind her, two more people followed close behind.