Chapter 71: Settling Scores

The next morning, Catherine's torment only deepened as she joined the family for breakfast. Zevian and Evelyn were in their little world, lost in a bubble of affection that pricked at Catherine like needles. She had intended to talk to Zevian last night, but they'd returned home late with Kiana peacefully asleep in Evelyn's arms—the little girl who used to run only to her.

"You've got some syrup on your face," Evelyn mumbled, reaching across the table. Before Zevian could react, she wiped the corner of his mouth with her thumb. Then, to everyone's surprise, she licked it clean, her eyes darting to Catherine with a subtle, knowing gleam.

Avery nearly choked on her water, barely containing her laughter. Catherine, however, paled like she'd just seen a ghost. She looked on helplessly as Zevian's eyes flickered between shock and amusement, his heart skipping at his wife's boldness.