My parents said, “We’re doing a small Christmas — just close family.” The next morning, I saw photos: 38 people. Even my ex was there.

“You embarrassed me.”

I looked directly at him. “No, Mason. I disconnected a service I pay for. You embarrassed yourself by depending on the sister you excluded.”

His jaw tightened.

Then Ryan stepped into the hallway.

He carried the calm confidence of someone who had never truly paid for the damage he caused.

“Em,” he said carefully. “This doesn’t need continue reading …