Kolton strode toward the seating area where his parents sat with their two guests, his jaw already tightening with irritation.
"Meet your mother's lifesaver, Dr. Christine Jane, and her daughter, Kimi Jane," Valencia announced with obvious pride in her voice.
The name hit Kolton like a physical blow. His steps faltered slightly as recognition washed over him.
His gaze swept over Christine before landing on the girl whose chin remained stubbornly pressed to her chest, her entire posture screaming discomfort.
What the hell was she doing here?
Christine rose gracefully from her seat, extending a professional hand toward him. "Dr. Christine Jane."
"Kolton Zachary." His handshake was firm but brief, his mind racing with unwanted memories.
"Kimi, please stand up," Christine whispered to her daughter, her tone carrying a hint of maternal embarrassment.
