_Author’s POV_
Mathias narrowed his eyes and let out a disdainful snort, his face contorting into an unpleasant expression as he glared at the father-daughter duo. “Is there something else?” He glared at Merek. “I’m busy and have someplace else to be.”
It was clear that this party today was intended for the Ashmoor family’s benefit, to witness their humiliation in the most public way possible.
Merek glanced at Calden, who remained composed and emotionless, exuding an uncommon calmness for someone so young. Merek sighed in his heart. If not for Calden’s questionable personal life and the countless times he had hurt Zarelle, he would have been an acceptable son-in-law.
“Come on, Mathias,” Merek said. “I don’t know what you are so mad about. If anyone has a reason to be angry, i
