Chapter 148: Crisis

Samantha's smile faltered slightly as she set the box aside. "It's for Richard," she said quietly, trying to keep the disappointment out of her expression.

Kyle leaned in, inspecting the watch with a raised eyebrow. "It's a fine gift, but definitely not what you were hoping for, I'm guessing. Well, just like I gifted you something that is neither for you nor your husband, some people might feel more comfortable gifting things they think have only a general meaning."

Samantha just smiled politely in response. "Let's try another one."

She reached for the next box, smaller and wrapped in deep blue paper. Her fingers made quick work of the wrapping, but when she opened it, she was met with another gift for Richard—this time, a set of monogrammed cufflinks. The disappointment was harder to hide now, and she could feel the irritation bubbling up inside her.