Chapter 788

Lena and Aaron froze, clearly mortified. Shaun was oblivious to the awkwardness radiating from them. His eyes stayed glued to Lena. “You’re so pretty… no wonder Aaron– hey, ow! Aaron, what the heck?” Aaron grabbed Shaun by the neck and hauled him away before he could finish whatever embarrassing thing he was about to say. Lena muttered under her breath, “Crazy.”

I smirked. “Aaron’s little darling?” I repeated, my voice dripping with teasing. Lena smacked my arm. “Don’t start. Let’s go give Grandpa his gift.” Her ears were bright red as she dragged me off, clearly flustered.

Of course, I couldn’t let it slide. “Lena, if you and Aaron aren’t that close, maybe you should consider him. Handsome, rich, and keeping it in the family– it’s basically perfect.” She glared daggers at me. “Keira Kay, one more word and I’m cutting you off.”

“Oh, defensive much?” I teased, smirking. “Keep going and see what happens!” she snapped, lunging at me. I laughed and dodged her, only to slam into what felt like a human brick wall. My stomach dropped as I caught the faintest whiff of a familiar cologne.

Jace. Seriously, why was I bumping into him everywhere lately?

“Jace, are you leaving?” Lena asked, her tone sharp, like she couldn’t wait to get rid of him. I’d moved on from everything that happened with Jace, but Lena? Definitely not. “Yeah,” he said, steadying me before letting go of my arm. His gaze flicked to my feet like he was making sure I was okay. “I came to wish Grandpa Edison a happy birthday.”

His tone was distant, calm. Our relationship was like an old bridge crossed and forgotten. “Not staying for dinner?” I asked, keeping it light. “No,” he said, hesitating slightly. “I need to… head home.”

His words made me think of the mini tarts his mom had bought for me earlier. She insisted I visit. “I saw your mom today,” I told him. “She misses you,” Jace said softly. “I know,” I replied. “I’ll visit your parents soon, once I wrap up a few things.”

His usual stoic expression cracked for a second, surprise flashing across his face. “If you’re…”