Lily—
His eyes darkened slightly.
At the same time—
A familiar, indifferent voice echoed clearly in Lily's mind.
She's late.
And she smells like exhaustion.
Lily stiffened without understanding why.
Why does the temperature suddenly feel lower…?
Did someone turn on the air conditioner?
She subconsciously straightened her back, forcing herself to look composed.
Jacob's gaze slid briefly to Emma.
Then to Grandpa Henry.
The living room was bright.
The tea was still steaming.
Emma sat politely, hands folded, her smile just a little too stiff.
Grandpa Henry looked cheerful, relaxed, and clearly in a good mood.
Everything looked…
Too peaceful.
Jacob's eyes narrowed almost imperceptibly.
"Grandpa," he greeted calmly.
Grandpa Henry waved happily the moment he saw him.
"You're back just in time," the old man said with a laugh. "Lily brought me a gift."
Jacob's gaze shifted back to Lily.
She smiled—awkward, obedient, flawless.
