Regret Came Too Late

Alice's smile faded. There was a time when her sweet words could convince Liam

to do anything. But now, he wasn't so easily swayed.

Grace couldn't hold back a laugh at their exchange from the doorway.

At the sound of her voice, Liam stirred as though ready to get up. But then, something seemed to click, and he settled back down, deliberately turning his

face away.

"What are you doing here? My leg's been broken for 18 hours. You could've waited until I was dead before showing up."

He scowled, too furious to look in her direction. Then, he noticed Grace's empty hands. Even strangers knew to bring flowers, but his own sister came with nothing like she couldn't even be bothered.

And that was when it hit him-how she had used him and tossed him aside. His anger flared even hotter.

"Grace, just leave. I don't want you here."

knew Liam like the back of her hand. He'd be the first to swear he didn't want it if he really wanted something. She eased into the chair beside him, plucked a piece of fruit from the nightstand, and started peeling

his irritation easing almost immediately. She had the apple peeled in no time. Just as he reached for it,

frustration. He would've stormed out on the spot if his leg weren't all

it to his mouth. "Alright, I'll quit messing

backed up in Liam's throat. He wanted to snap at her but couldn't quite bring himself to do it. She had him figured out, plain and simple. Still, he did want

caved and took the bite.

banter unfolded like a private show, and Alice found it

on them. The more he cared, the more he'd

demands on. Alice's hand clenched at her side, the

fix it. "Alice, Grace is here too. Can we just call a truce

her smile tight and brittle. "I think I'll step out for some air. Actually, there are a few things I need to go over with

with the family today? I'm in rough shape here. You don't even know how terrified I was last

through as he had been simmering with