Serena's POV
The dinner dragged on forever. Every bite stuck in my throat as I forced polite smiles, pretending to be the happy daughter-in-law Evelyn wanted to see.
Ryan played his part perfectly—the attentive husband, occasionally touching my hand or shoulder like we were still madly in love. What a joke.
When dessert finally arrived, I thought salvation was near. Just a little longer and I'd be free from this charade.
Then Evelyn dropped her bombshell.
"It's getting quite late. You two should stay the night," she announced, not a question but a statement. "Your old room is prepared—just as you left it."
My mind raced for excuses. Work deadline? Early meeting? Sick pet?
Before I could open my mouth, Ryan squeezed my hand under the table. "Thank you, Grandmother. Th
