The Best Revenge It Wasn't Even Your Child novel Chapter 186

Sarah caught up quickly. “Adelina, I’m right here. I’ve got your back. Catherine isn’t worth stressing over… just let it go.”

***

Catherine and Sophia picked out their dresses, then browsed for a gift for Ableson. After lunch together, they finally went their separate ways. Running into Adelina and her mother left Catherine feeling unsettled.

Before Sophia left, she said, “You and Lance are history. There’s nothing between you now, so why feel awkward? Grandpa and Grandma are on your side. We’ve got nothing to worry about.”

Catherine shook her head. “It’s not guilt. I just don’t want to mess up the family’s mood.”

She paused, searching for the right words. “Adelina will be part of the James family soon anyway. If I stick around, it just makes everything weird. It’s better if I keep my distance.”

Sophia looked confused but tried to understand. “But Grandma really wants you at Grandpa’s birthday party. You can’t just skip it.”

“I promised, so I’ll be there,” Catherine said. After thinking for a moment, she added, “But after this, I don’t want to go to any more family events. Next time, just help me talk Grandma out of it.”

Sophia pouted. “Seriously? My birthday’s coming up soon. I wanted you there.”

She looked down, obviously disappointed.

“Go ahead and have your party. We’ll celebrate together, just the two of us, another time.” Catherine couldn’t bring herself to say no to Sophia’s friendship.

Sophia finally managed a smile. She promised not to drag Catherine into any more James family gatherings.

When Ableson’s birthday banquet rolled around, the whole Cabinda Hotel had been reserved for the event. Catherine arrived before the festivities began. Sophia was waiting at the entrance and took her straight up to a private lounge.

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