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Some kind of pissing contest? Typical.

Connor’s smile is razor-sharp. “Can’t say that I have.”

I barely suppress a snort. Take that, trust-fund-baby.

Ella’s gaze darts between them, her smile faltering. She tugs on Trent’s arm. “I’m sure he’s heard of it. But let’s not talk business tonight, honey. This is family time.”

Family time, right. More like another opportunity for Mom to remind me of my ticking biological clock and lack of a ring on my finger.

I turn to Connor, lowering my voice. “I’m so sorry aboutthis.”

His eyes meet mine, a glimmer of amusement and something else I can’t quite decipher. He leans in, his breath warm against my ear. “Relax, Blue. I can handle a little family drama.”

“Where’s father?” Ella asks our mother.

“In the dining room. Why don’t we continue this discussion there?” Mother walks out, gesturing us to follow.

As we file into the lavish space, I catch Ella’s eye. She gives me a small, almost imperceptible nod—a silent plea for understanding. My heart sinks. Something is clearly bothering her, but with Trent at her side, I can’t get to her.

Connor pulls out my chair for me and takes the spot beside me.

The maids bring silver platters of roast chicken, vegetables, and mashed potatoes.

My mother’s gaze lingers on Connor, her lips pursed. No man my mother didn’t select is ever good enough. If only she knew the truth.

Connor, for his part, appears perfectly at ease. Ella picks at her food, her smile too tight. Trent’s eyes narrow as he joins my mother in scrutinizing Connor. Dad beams, oblivious, the only one genuinely pleased to have us all together.

“So, Connor,” my mother begins, “Tell us about yourself. What is it you do again?”

“I’m a cybersecurity consultant,” Connor says. “I’m working with Richard to evaluate his company’s cybersecurity.”

“Interesting,” my mother says, though her tone implies the opposite. “And where did you and Mary meet?”

Before Connor can respond, my father jumps in enthusiastically. “At the office, of course! Connor’s been doing great work for me. Didn’t I already tell you about him? Sharp, successful man.”

Doesn’t he realize he’s only encouraging my mother’s interrogation?

My mother’s voice drips with faux sweetness. “I can’t seem to remember. I’m sorry.” She turns her attention to Trent. “And Trent, how are you doing?”

I spear a carrot with more force than necessary. Only an hour left to endure this torture. At least Connor is here. Having him by my side makes it marginally more bearable.

Trent grins, clearly enjoying the spotlight. “Things are going well. The firm just closed a huge deal for a luxury condo complex downtown. It was all over the news. I led the negotiations for that one.”

He glances at Ella as if expecting praise, but she just nods politely.

“It’s going to completely transform that neighborhood,” Trent continues. “Bringing in young professionals really raises property values. We got the zoning laws changed and everything.”

My mother beams. “How wonderful! It sounds like your career is really taking off.”

“Oh, absolutely,” Trent says, slicing into his chicken. “I was just made junior partner, youngest ever at the firm. I’m on the fast track now.”

Ella shifts in her seat.

I stab another carrot, barely listening as Trent drones on.

“It’s going to be huge,” he says. “We’re talking luxury condos, high-end retail, gym and spa areas. And with my connections, I’ve got dibs on the penthouse suite.”

Mom and Dad nod along, hanging on his every word. I glance at Ella, but she’s studying her plate, her smile fading.

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