The sound of the large door closing marked the end of the baby shower at Valerius's residence. The classical music that had been playing so beautifully had now stopped, leaving behind a silence that felt heavy and suffocating. The main lobby, which just a few hours ago had been bathed in luxury, now looked like a chaotic battlefield. Deflated balloons, trampled lily petals, and the scent of spilled champagne on the marble created a sickening sight.
Mark stood in the middle of the room, with his back to the staircase. He had loosened his tie, leaving the top button of his shirt undone to catch a breath of air.
Mark stared at his hands. There was an uncomfortable heat in his palms. Every time he tried to convince himself that his actions were right, the image of Seren's blank face as the card was torn would flash before him, judging him.
"Mark, you look so tired. Go get some rest," Beatrice's voice came from the direction of the sofa.
