From the start of Grace’s birthday celebration, Julian had already sensed that Aurora’s sister was no easy woman to deal with. And now, hearing her speak like this in front of so many people only confirmed what he had suspected all along.

But Aurora didn’t seem the least bit rattled. She smiled easily. “You’re giving me too much credit, sister.”

“I don’t think he’s chasing after me. After all, I saw him bothering you just now as well. He’s always been a flirt. That’s just who he is.”

Tessa’s expression faltered, her calm gaze flashing briefly with panic. “He’s your ex, not mine. What does that have to do with me? You must’ve been mistaken. I’ve never even met him before.”

“You better hope I was mistaken,” Aurora said quietly as she stepped closer, leaning in to whisper at her ear. “You really think I don’t know what you’ve been up to? I know every filthy little thing you’ve done. If you don’t want me dragging it all to Mother, I suggest you start behaving.”

Aurora smiled again and stepped back, putting some distance between them.

“We’re family, aren’t we? Why let things get so ugly? All the guests are watching. Let’s not put on a show.”

From a distance, Grace had been watching as Tessa approached Aurora. She’d been concerned at first, worried Tessa might stir up trouble. This was Aurora’s moment, after all. If the clients were put off because of Tessa, it could cost them future deals. What would Aurora do then? Grace had been prepared to step in, but to her surprise, Aurora handled it all effortlessly. She clearly had nothing to worry about.

Tessa, on the other hand, had been certain Aurora knew nothing about her actions. But the moment their eyes met, that certainty started to crack. Did she really know?

Tessa tested the waters. “What exactly do you know?”

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Aurora straightened and gave her a cool, enigmatic smile. “That’s not something you need to worry about. Just keep your nose clean, and don’t give anyone a reason to come after you. Because if I catch you slipping again, it won’t be this easy next time.”

Tessa looked into her sister’s eyes, that half–smiling gaze making her heart pound. She understood exactly what Aurora meant. Playing dumb clearly wasn’t going to work anymore. But giving in so easily? That wasn’t happening either.

Just then, out of the corner of her eye, she caught the server glancing her way and giving her a subtle signal. In that moment, Tessa understood that he was ready. Her expression shifted instantly.

“Sister, why so serious? Today’s your big day,” she said, her tone suddenly warm and flattering. “You should be smiling more. It suits you better. Come, let me toast to you. And Lucas, too, let’s all raise a glass.”

At her words, Aurora and Lucas exchanged a glance, both quietly picking up on her intent. Her sudden enthusiasm was probably because she tampered with the drink. But what happened next took them both by surprise.

The server carrying the tray of wine approached. Tessa reached out and took a glass for herself, then gestured for the server to step closer to Lucas and Aurora. Still wary, Aurora hesitated but eventually took a glass. The server, reading the mood, turned and walked over to Lucas, subtly indicating for him to take one as well. Just as Lucas reached out, the server stumbled – whether by accident or design – and tipped the entire tray, crashing it into Lucas and spilling wine all over him.

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