Tangled Hearts

Chapter 16: A Night to Endure (part 1)

Cathy Chan stared at her reflection in the mirror, trying to calm the nerves fluttering in her stomach. She had been dreading this evening ever since Rey mentioned his birthday party, and the fact that Elijah insisted on her being there only made it worse. She wanted to support her son, but the thought of walking into a room filled with people who had, in one way or another, contributed to the most painful chapters of her life was almost too much to bear.

The party was being held at one of the most prestigious hotels in the capital, a place that screamed luxury and exclusivity. Cathy had attended events there before, back when she was still Mrs. King. But this time was different. She was no longer part of that world, no longer the wife of Rey King. She was just Cathy Chan—divorced, struggling to keep her head above water, and trying to make a new life for herself and her son.

Cathy smoothed down the fabric of her dress—a simple, elegant gown in deep navy that she hoped would help her blend in rather than stand out. She had chosen it carefully, wanting to look presentable without drawing too much attention. The last thing she needed was to give Eloise or anyone else more ammunition to use against her.

As she prepared to leave, Elijah bounced into the room, excitement written all over his face. He was dressed in a smart little suit that made him look far older than his nine years, and Cathy’s heart swelled with love and pride.

“Mama, are you ready? We’re going to be late!” Elijah said, practically bouncing on the balls of his feet.

“I’m ready, love,” Cathy replied, forcing a smile as she grabbed her purse. “You look so handsome.”

Elijah beamed, clearly pleased with the compliment. “Thanks, Mama! I can’t wait for Dad’s party. It’s going to be so much fun!”

Cathy nodded, swallowing back her anxiety. “I’m sure it will be.”

As they arrived at the hotel, Cathy’s nerves grew worse. The grandeur of the venue was undeniable, with its gleaming chandeliers, marble floors, and elegantly dressed guests milling about in the lobby. Cathy felt out of place, a familiar feeling she had come to know all too well. But she steeled herself, knowing she had to put on a brave face for Elijah’s sake.

As they approached the entrance to the ballroom, Cathy felt a sense of dread settle in the pit of her stomach. The doors were open, revealing a glittering scene inside—guests mingling, waiters circulating with trays of champagne, and a band playing soft music in the background. The room was decorated with the finest touches, every detail meticulously planned, as was expected for an event hosted by Rey King.

Elijah tugged at her hand, pulling her toward the crowd. “Come on, Mama! Let’s find Dad!”

Cathy let herself be led by her son, her eyes scanning the room for Rey. But before she could spot him, her heart sank as she saw who else was in attendance. There, standing near the bar with drinks in hand, were the Chans—Eloise, Alodia, and Trevor. Eloise was as beautiful and poised as ever, her every movement exuding the kind of effortless elegance Cathy had always envied. Alodia, her stepmother, looked as imposing as Cathy remembered, with her sharp eyes and even sharper tongue. And then there was Trevor, her stepbrother, looking every bit the successful businessman with his arm around his girlfriend, Tanya Tiu, who was known for her socialite status.

Cathy’s steps faltered, and for a brief moment, she considered turning around and leaving. But before she could act on that impulse, Elijah spotted Rey across the room.

“There’s Dad!” Elijah exclaimed, breaking into a run toward Rey, who stood surrounded by a group of well-wishers.

Cathy followed more slowly, her heart pounding as she felt the weight of the Chans’ gazes on her. She could almost hear their whispered judgments, the barely concealed disdain that had haunted her for years.

When she finally reached Rey, Elijah was already at his side, chattering excitedly about something. Rey looked up and met Cathy’s eyes, his expression neutral, though she could sense the underlying tension between them.

“Cathy,” Rey said in greeting, his tone polite but distant. “Thank you for bringing Elijah.”

“Of course,” Cathy replied, forcing herself to meet his gaze. “He insisted on coming.”

Rey’s eyes softened slightly as he looked at his son, but the moment was fleeting. “I’m glad he’s here. It wouldn’t be the same without him.”

Before Cathy could respond, Eloise appeared at Rey’s side, slipping her arm through his in a gesture that was both possessive and pointed. “Well, well, if it isn’t my dear stepsister,” Eloise said, her voice dripping with mock sweetness. “How lovely of you to join us.”

Cathy stiffened but managed to keep her voice steady. “Elijah wanted me here. I’m just here for him.”

“Of course you are,” Eloise replied, her smile not reaching her eyes. “But it must be difficult for you, being around all of us again. After all, this isn’t really your world anymore, is it?”

Cathy felt the sting of Eloise’s words, but she refused to let it show. “I’m here for my son. That’s all that matters.”

Eloise’s smile turned into a smirk, her eyes narrowing slightly. “Well, I suppose it’s good that you’re focused on Elijah. After all, it’s not like you have much else to focus on these days.”

Cathy’s jaw tightened, but before she could respond, Alodia joined the conversation, her voice carrying the same sharpness that Cathy remembered all too well. “Cathy, it’s been a while. How have you been?”

“I’ve been fine,” Cathy replied, keeping her tone neutral.

“Really?” Alodia said, raising an eyebrow. “It must be hard, managing on your own. But I suppose you’re used to doing things the hard way.”

Cathy felt the familiar pang of inadequacy, the same feeling that had plagued her ever since her father died and Alodia had taken control of their lives. But she squared her shoulders, refusing to let them see her falter.

“I manage just fine,” Cathy said firmly. “Elijah is my priority, and he’s doing well.”