That day, the grand Laverson estate was filled with lively chatter. The annual gathering of your family and Lard’s had been eagerly anticipated by everyone. You had prepared yourself with an elegant light blue gown, one that Lard had once said matched your eyes perfectly.

Yet, deep down, you knew this was merely a formality to endure, devoid of any warmth or love.

As you waited nervously in the drawing room, Lard appeared at the front door in a flawless suit that emphasized his cold demeanor. Beside him stood a blonde woman, graceful and captivating.

Your eyes met Lard’s, and for a moment, a sharp silence settled between the three of you. He looked at you without expression, as if this meeting was nothing more than a routine encounter, not an event that would make you seethe with anger and hurt.

“I’m sorry, I can’t accompany you tonight,” Lard said tersely, his voice flat, void of any remorse. "Alessia wants me to go with her to another event. It’s important to her.”