The Eldridge family, who were enjoying breakfast, froze in shock as Ethan walked into the dining room, his presence unexpected and clearly unwelcome to some. The clatter of utensils against fine china ceased as every head turned toward him.
"You? What are you doing here?" Diana’s voice cut through the room like ice, her disdain unmistakable.
Ethan had anticipated this reaction. It was almost amusing how predictable Diana could be. Calmly, he let a small smile tug at the corners of his lips, ignoring the hostility directed at him.
Before he could respond, Eldridge, the head of the family, interjected with authority, his voice echoing in the spacious room.
"Diana! Watch your tone," Eldridge scolded. "Ethan is your nephew, the son of your late sister. He has every right to be here, as muc
