The room glittered with opulence, and an ornate cake held center stage.
But joy was the furthest from Sadieâs feelings.
She took in the spectacle, the color still absent from her cheeks.
Zayden lounged on a sofa, his amusement apparent as he observed Sadie.
Sadie took a seat opposite him.
Her eyes, sharp and searching, met his.
âWhatâs your game?â she questioned.
Zaydenâs grin widened.
âOh Sadie, always so fiery.
Just thought Iâd celebrate your birthday with you, making this day special.
â He leaned in, placing a hand on her shoulder.
Swiftly, Sadie swatted his hand away, her gaze a molten mix of rage and fear.
âCut the theatrics.
What do you know?â she challenged, voice steely.
âIf youâre trying to intimidate me, just spill everything at once!â
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Zaydenâs playful smirk faded.
With a simple gesture, he ordered everyone else in the room to exit.
As the last person left, he reclined on the sofa, leisurely lighting up a cigar, the orange glow briefly illuminating his face.
Watching him, unease gnawed at Sadie.
Her hands tightened involuntarily, preparing herself for the next revelation.
Drawing in a deep drag, Zayden locked eyes with Sadie, his voice laced with amusement.
âWhen are you planning to see Marianna?â
At the mention of that name, Sadie felt as though the rug had been pulled from beneath her feet; she struggled to find words.
Unfazed, Zayden continued, smoke swirling around him.
âYouâve been living the high life for five years, and yet youâve never visited your own mother.
Sheâs in that sanatorium, right? Helen Clarke?â