Chapter 40

After going downstairs, Holly took a turn and headed to the bathroom. She entered a cubicle, locked the door, and sat on the toilet seat, covering her face with her hands. She took some time to calm down before remembering what she had been sent upstairs for in the first place.

She took out her phone and sent Bryce a message. "Mom wants you and Father to come down. It's time to cut the cake."

Bryce replied, "Sure."

Holly sat there for a few more minutes before going out to wash her hands at the sink. She looked up and saw how pale her face was in the mirror. She lifted the corners of her lips up, trying to look more normal.

The sounds of high heels clacking on the floor grew louder before the door was pushed open, revealing a petite figure wearing a midnight-blue dress that looked like the night sky—it was Samantha.

She eyed Holly and smiled insincerely. "We meet again, Holly."

"Hmm," Holly acknowledged her presence simply before wiping her hands with a towel.

Samantha walked