Chapter 559

Something in Lucas stirred when he heard those were Aurora’s favorite. His eyes followed the movement of the fruit basket, and for a moment, the image of Aurora, full of life and energy, flashed through his mind. The woman lying in the hospital bed now was a shadow of that vibrant version of her—like a completely different person. It was hard to even connect the two.

Kenneth stood nearby, glancing between Aurora and Lucas with a complicated expression. Seriously, how had this woman managed to win over someone like that man? And now, with her sister speaking so coldly, he still had his people standing by her side. That was the only way Kenneth could stay in the loop and maybe benefit from it later.

He smiled and said, “Didn’t expect you to be so thoughtful—buying her favorite fruit and all.”

Her favorite fruit? Tessa and the executive exchanged a glance, clearly confused. Neither of them had any idea who this man was.

Wendy shot her brother a look of disapproval. What was he doing? Why did he always feel the need to jump into conversations that had nothing to do with them? And really, what did any of this have to do with them in the first place?

Tessa cleared her throat awkwardly and asked, “And you are?”

Kenneth grinned. “I’m one of Lucas’s closest friends. We’ve known each other for years. When I heard Aurora was sick, I came to check on her. I even helped bring in these doctors.”

Hearing that, Tessa let out a quiet breath of relief. So, these people were brought in by this man, not Lucas himself. He was just a pretty face with a wealthy friend. The thought soothed her ego a little.

Compared to that, she felt much better about her own choice—at least Julian had money and power of his own. One way or another, her future was secure. In Ravenshore, the Hunt family was considered old money—prestigious and powerful. What did this pretty boy have that could ever compare to that?

Tessa’s mood visibly improved, and when she turned to speak to Kenneth, her smile was noticeably more sincere. “So, you’re my brother-in-law’s close friend. That makes us family—no need to be so formal.”

Kenneth was momentarily caught off guard. Just a moment ago, she’d seemed like someone impossible to deal with, especially in the way she spoke to Lucas, and even to her own sister, she’d come off as cold and indifferent. Now, this sudden warmth felt out of place, and he wasn't quite sure how to respond.

Still, it was a good sign. If Lucas ever wanted to smooth things over with his sister-in-law, Kenneth might be the only bridge to make that happen.

“Of course, Miss Walton. You’re absolutely right. I’ll remember that next time,” he said with a courteous smile.

Tessa was quite pleased with Kenneth’s attitude. Compared to Lucas, this man was far more agreeable.

But what Kenneth didn’t realize was that all his little tactics meant nothing to Lucas. Lucas didn’t need any of it, and frankly, it didn’t matter. Besides, Aurora had never been close with Tessa to begin with. He didn’t need to waste energy currying favor where none was required. The only reason they were even allowed in today was out of courtesy to the executive—not because Tessa meant anything at all.

But of course, Kenneth had no idea.