Hugh stepped off the gravel path and pushed open the door of the traditional restaurant. His cold, piercing gaze was like a blade pressing against Sarah's back.
A chill ran down her spine as sweat beaded at her temples. She turned around stiffly, just in time to catch a glimpse of a dark figure brushing past her shoulder.
Hugh walked right by her without so much as a glance, but the chill he brought with him lingered in the air like a storm front.
Sarah turned her head slowly, almost mechanically. There he was, tall and imposing, now standing protectively beside Serena.
His eyes were dark, unreadable, but his low voice cut through the tension like steel. "As long as I'm part of the Larson family, the Larson family will always have Serena's back.
"You're so eager to have her go crawling back to beg you and Howard. What is it, Sarah? Are you hoping that I drop dead soon?"
Sarah opened her mouth to explain, but Serena was faster. She tugged on Hugh's sleeve with a frown.
"It was just a pointless argument. Don't say things like that. It's bad luck. You're going to live a long, healthy life, okay?"
Some things should never have been said out loud. Words had power.
Serena's disapproval was written all over her face, and she tugged his sleeve with a bit more force. There was a flicker of anger in the gesture.
Sarah's explanation got caught in her throat. To her disbelief, Hugh's icy expression thawed. His eyes softened.
"You're right. That was out of line. My bad."
Serena let go of his sleeve, feeling satisfied. She didn't even notice the stunned looks Chris and Sarah had.
Did Hugh… just admit he was wrong?
Sarah shook her head. This wasn't the time to get distracted by Hugh's uncharacteristic humility. He had heard every awful and disrespectful thing she said earlier.
Panic surged through her as she stepped forward.
"I-I didn't mean what I said. I was just arguing with Serena. I've got nothing against you, Mr. Larson. I'd never wish harm on you—"
"You share a father with Serena, but that's never stopped you from cursing her without holding back," Hugh cut in coldly.
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