Chapter 22
Eliza’s birthday was just around the corner, and Dean had pulled out all the stops, throwing her a lavish party with a guest list that included all their family and friends. The place was buzzing with energy–twinkling lights, flowers galore, and a sweet, inviting vibe that wrapped everyone in its embrace. Eliza looked like a dream in her stunning evening gown, glowing like a real–life princess, while Dean stayed glued to her side, his eyes never straying from her.
The party was in full swing, laughter and cheers filling the air, when the grand ballroom doors slowly swung open, revealing the Newells along with Aiden. The Newell family members approached with carefully chosen gifts, their expressions a blend of awkward smiles and genuine effort. Aiden had his gaze locked on Eliza; he seemed momentarily rooted to the spot.
He had wrestled with his emotions for what felt like an eternity, each moment leading up to the party a battle within. His longing for Eliza had been relentless, crashing over him like a relentless tide, ultimately pushing him to show up here. Seeing Eliza so close, so connected with Dean, felt like a punch to the gut.
Aiden’s heart ached, a sharp pain spreading within him, making each breath a challenge. Still, he steeled himself, swallowing his hurt, and tried to present a calm front. With a deep breath, he started moving towards Eliza.
Eliza’s eyes met Aiden’s, and for a split second, a mix of emotions flickered across her face, but she quickly composed herself. She nodded at him with a polite smile, though there was a noticeable distance in her demeanor. Dean caught the subtle shift and followed her gaze to Aiden, instinctively pulling Eliza closer as if to silently reaffirm his place by her side.
Dean had been her constant shield throughout the night, but when he stepped out to fetch a coat for her, Aiden seized the moment to approach her. Standing before Eliza, he softly said, “Happy birthday, Ellie.”
His words carried a tremor, revealing the emotional storm inside him.
Eliza replied gently, “Thank you.” Just those two words, and yet they seemed to widen the gap between them.
As Aiden reached for his gift, Eliza spoke up, “If it’s just a frreebie, don’t bother.” Her words instantly brought back memories from a year ago, leaving Aiden looking pale and shaken.
When the Newells tried to offer their gifts, Eliza remarked with a cool detachment, “You never sent my gifts before. There’s no need to start now.” Her words cut deep, leaving the Newell family visibly pained.
Evan’s eyes glistening with tears, implored, “I know I messed up. Can’t you forgive me?”
Forgive? Eliza turned the word over in her mind. Years of neglect and hurt loomed over her like dark clouds–forgotten birthdays, affection stolen by her sister, harshness coming from her brother–all etched vividly in her memory. Forgiveness seemed a distant dream.
She decided not to let it weigh her down anymore. But before anyone could digest the tension in the room, the ballroom doors burst open dramatically.
Margot stumbled in, looking a mess. Her hair was wild, her prison clothes in tatters, her face streaked with dirt and exhaustion, but her eyes burned with a fierce determination. Waving a knife, she screamed, “Eliza, you’re going to pay for this!”
Had she broken out of prison?
