David's POV
Cornelia handed me my phone, and I stared at the screen with annoyance. I accepted it with a forced smile, pulling myself up and adjusting my pants.
"I need to answer this," I said, pressing a quick kiss to her lips before heading to my bedroom.
I took a deep breath before accepting the call.
"Father expects you home," came the immediate declaration, his voice cold and unmistakably Caleb's tone.
"Well, good afternoon to you as well, dear brother," I muttered, settling on the bed's edge.
"Pleasantries seemed unnecessary considering you disappeared without a single word." His voice carried a sharp edge of resentment.
I dragged my fingers through my hair, tension building. "Listen, I apologize. The departure wasn't exactly planned."
Silence stretched between us. Then, in a softer tone, he inquired, "How is she doing?"
Something about his concern for her left a sour taste in my mouth.
"She's fine," I replied curtly.
