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A deep voice interrupts her. “About what?”

A tall man with salt-and-pepper hair strides into the room, wearing a crisp white shirt and slacks. His brown eyes are fixed on me.

Sloan nudges him. “John, this is Lil, Gemma’s friend.”

“Lil,” John says. “It’s nice to meet you.” His features are similar to Sebastian’s, kind of like an older version. But where Sebastian radiates warmth, John’s eyes are cold.

Do I have something on my face?

“You too, Mr. Barron.” I manage a smile.

“Oh please, call him John and me Sloan. There is no need for last names here.” She holds up one cupcake to John’s mouth. “Look, she even brought your favorite cupcakes.”

John hesitates for a moment before leaning down and taking a bite. “They taste good.”

But there’s not one indication he actually likes them, nothing. Fantastic. Did I forget the sugar or something?

Sloan pouts and takes a bite herself. “They’re amazing. You must excuse my husband. He’s a bit grumpy today.”

He nods again, then turns to Gemma. “Darling. Welcome home.” He kisses her cheek, then looks at Sebastian. “A word in my study, please.”

Sebastian’s jaw tightens. “Sure, Dad.”

“Finish before dinner,”Sloan says.

“I will, love.” John places a kiss on Sloan’s forehead before leaving with Sebastian.

Did I do something wrong? I brought cupcakes. Isn’t that what you’re supposed to do when you’re a guest in someone’s home?

Gemma loops her arm through mine. “Come on. Let me show you to your room. You’re going to love it.”

I follow her up the winding staircase and down a long hallway. We stop in front of a door, and Gemma pushes it open with a flourish. “Here we are! Your home away from home for the next few days.”

I step inside, my jaw dropping at the sheer size of the room. A king-sized bed dominates the space, piled high with plush pillows and a fluffy duvet. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer a breathtaking view of the city skyline.

“Wow, Gem. This is incredible.” I drop my bag on the bed, running my fingers over the soft fabric.

“Only the best for my bestie. Dinner’s at seven, so you have some time to relax and freshen up. If you need anything, just holler, okay? And we’ll meet with Mary after dinner.”

I nod, and she gives me a quick hug before disappearing out the door. The moment it clicks shut behind her, I collapse onto the bed, burying my face in my hands.

Their father hates me. Sloan, at least, likes me? And Sebastian… I’ve never seen him so on edge before.

I’m probably overthinking things. Reading too much into a simple interaction.

A sharp knock sounds at the door, and I nearly jump out of my skin, clutching the duvet. “C-come in.”

The door opens, revealing Sloan with a stack of fluffy towels in her arms. “I thought you might want some fresh towels.” She steps inside and places them on the dresser. “The bathroom’s through there, and there should be plenty of toiletries for you to use.”

“Thank you, that’s very kind.”

Sloan studies me for a moment, her head tilted slightly. “You look just like her.”

What?

Chapter 25

Lilian

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