The atmosphere in the Chadwick house was thick with unspoken tension. Brooke and Lottie's constant hovering, their forced displays of affection, only amplified Lyse's discomfort and had her considering returning to her apartment. The only impediment was Brandon, there was a sinister and dishonest way about him and she did not want to be at his mercy.
After a strained dinner, Lyse excused herself, claiming exhaustion. She retreated to the guest room that had been prepared for her, longing for a moment of solitude. Once she was safely out of earshot, Brooke turned to Lottie, her carefully constructed facade of concern crumbling into frustration and anger.
"She refused me," Brooke said, her voice tight. "She would not even bother to take a look at my designs." Lottie's perfectly manicured eyebrows furrowed.
