The room fell silent as all eyes turned to the far end of the table, where Selena was holding her hand over her mouth, looking nauseous.
Gavin leaned in, worried. "What's wrong?"
Selena shook her head, unsure herself.
Maybe it was the knowledge that the soup had been tampered with. After all, she knew what had been added.
One shouldn't have felt anything—unless one had colon cancer.
Confused, she glanced at Gavin. He'd had some of the soup, too. Shouldn't he be feeling it by now?
Maybe the effects just hadn't kicked in yet.
"I'm fine," she said with a forced smile. "You should have some more soup."
Gavin seemed reassured and went back to his meal.
Selena's condition had worsened, though the doctors had told her that cancer patients who remained unaware of their condition often lived longer—months, even years.
It was psychological, they'd said, but in the end, it was just a temporary comfort.
Gavin continued drinking his soup, his mind elsewhere, before absentmindedly reaching for some vegetables slathered in peanut sauce.
Meanwhile, Selena set her utensils down and turned to Gavin. "I'm going to propose a toast to my aunt and uncle."
Selena walked over to where Keira and Lewis were sitting.
of champagne, she smiled warmly. "Aunt Keera, Uncle Lewis, I know I've been a little out of line in
sip
with Lewis, and with a slight nod, she raised her glass and
some things that upset you earlier, Aunt Keera. That wasn't my intention. I just feel like the house is so empty these days. It got me thinking. I hope you don't take
didn't know
she bring that
raised an eyebrow.
clear the air. I know there's been some misunderstandings between us, and since Jake listens to you more than anyone else, maybe you could help me
Selena's words were harmless, but they
both of them had moved on,
distanced himself by not moving back home, mainly
was the one who
game, indicating that
If so, she was doing a damn good job. Keira placed her glass on
can that be?" Selena feigned surprise. "Weren't you both in the same
on your every word. If anyone could convince him, it
"What is this
grew up
wearing thin. "Selena, if you're not enjoying dinner,
caught off guard
the table, Ryan and Ellie shared a glance. They didn't know about Keira and Jake's history, but
like Selena, saw this as her just desserts. She was stirring the pot, and it
He was completely in
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