Chapter 16: Old wound

Ethan walked in, his face unreadable as always. He was composed, "there was a hint of turmoil in his eyes, like a storm was raging just beneath the surface."

Noah, sensing the tension in the air, gently took Ava’s arm and pulled her out of the kitchen. “Come on, let’s give them some space,” Noah whispered to her, though curiosity was eating her alive.

As they sat in the living room, Ava couldn’t help but glance back toward the kitchen. Something felt off between Ethan and Victoria. Goosebumps rose on Ava’s arms when she heard Ethan’s cold, sharp voice.

“What are you still doing here?” His words sliced through the air, low and sharp.

Victoria, unbothered by the chill in his tone, smiled sweetly and moved closer to him. “I missed you, baby. I thought we could catch up. I even made you breakfast, your favorite,” she said, her voice dripping with an unsettling softness.

“I don’t need your breakfast. I have a cook.” Ethan’s voice was ice-cold, sending a shiver down Ava’s spine. She had ne