Chapter #65

Heather's sudden appearance was like a bolt from the blue. I had no idea what she was doing here, and she hadn't informed me about her visit. She was blissfully unaware of the events of the previous night. As she held a cake in her hands, I found myself silently praying for things not to spiral out of control.

Eden, ever the charmer, greeted Heather with a surprised, "Heather! You? What a surprise!" He stepped forward, his attention completely focused on Heather, leaving me feeling like an outsider. It seemed like my fate was to be perpetually ignored by Eden.

Heather moved forward and planted a smooch on Eden's cheek, catching everyone off guard. "Hey! Eden, I was just passing by when I thought I should give you something as a thank you for your gift!" she said, her words flying over my head. What gift was she talking about? She handed him the cake, adding, "This is a fruit cake for you. I baked it myself. It's my great grandma's recipe. I hope you like it."

Without thinking, I blurt