Chapter 30

Years had passed since Paisley cut ties with the Sullivans. Marriage to Dominick, Serena’s birth, and their divorce—none of it registered with her estranged family. Then, Gregory, her biological father, called. She hadn't deleted his number.

Serena squirmed, irritated by the ringing phone. "Mom, answer it!"

Paisley hesitated, curiosity winning. She tapped the screen.

"What took you so long?" Gregory’s voice was sharp.

"What do you want?" Paisley’s reply was cool.

"I'm your father! Can't I call you?" He sounded defensive.

Paisley chuckled dryly.

Gregory’s tone softened. "Your mother and sister saw you at the mall. Things got… tense." He sidestepped the guilt trip, surprising Paisley. "Since you're back, come home. You're still my daughter."

Sitting back at Sullivan Villa, ignoring Christina’s disapproving stare, he continued, "You've learned your lesson, haven't you? You'll get along with Brittany now."

"We'll forget the past! Your mother, Brittany, and I—we’ll let it go!"

Paisley regretted answering. She hung up.

"Hello! Hello!" Gregory’s shout followed the dial tone. He slammed the phone down, cursing. "That ungrateful…"

Christina’s unimpressed expression was sharp. "Why are you talking to her like that? Why insist she come back?"

Christina had only asked him to call because Brittany coveted a gown Paisley owned, and they couldn't pressure Dominick.

Gregory shrugged. "We let her go before. Now she's back, she can stay away. But she's still our daughter…"

"You want her back to bully Brittany again?" Christina rolled her eyes.

"She was young. And with Brittany's position now… who'd dare?" He glanced at Brittany. "When you and Dominick are solid, help Paisley. Find her a good guy. Forget that gown. Paisley's friends aren't impressive anyway."

He added, "I'll give you money for something better."

Christina’s mood brightened. Brittany smiled. "Sure, Dad. If Paisley comes back, I’ll make sure she’s taken care of." When the time comes, she thought, I'll find her a husband. She'll never hold her head up high again.