In the misty quietude of the Novus City Memorial Gardens, the tension was thick enough to choke the blooming chrysanthemums. Jane Hobbs cast a sidelong glance at Erik Martin, who was busy directing the catering staff and florists with the air of a crown prince. She then turned her gaze toward Christian Hobbs, her expression instantly hardening into a mask of maternal disappointment.
"You stubborn, ungrateful girl," Jane hissed, her voice a low vibration of fury. "Instead of helping Mr. Erik Martin prepare the grounds for your own grandfather’s memorial, you’re standing here gossiping with this piece of trash? Are you determined to make the the Martin family resent us? Is that your goal?"
Christian’s brow furrowed, a flicker of defiance crossing her elegant features. She turned her head a
