As Julian approached the grand double doors leading to the main hall, the unmistakable sound of his mother’s laughter reached his ears.It was the kind of laugh she reserved for impressing important guests, high pitched, practiced, and utterly insincere.A softer, more demure chuckle followed, one he instantly recognized as Charlotte Wainwright’s.Julian cursed under his breath, his hand pausing on the ornate handle.He clenched his jaw, debating whether to turn around and leave before he was noticed. But before he could entertain the thought any longer, he steeled himself, adjusted his blazer, and pushed open the door.Inside, his mother, Vivian Devereux, sat on one of the lavish sofas in the sitting area, her pearl necklace glinting under the chandelier’s light. Next to her, Charlotte perched elegantly, her manicured fingers lightly gripping a flute of champagne.Both women turned at the sound of his entrance.“Julian, darling!” Vivian exclaimed, her face lighting up in that all too
Last Updated : 2024-12-09 Read more