Scott Cross had survived many things in his life like hostile takeovers, attacks from his own board, and even Damian's stubbornness on days when the world was collapsing around him.
But nothing tested his patience quite like being trapped between his mother and sister at a wedding he didn't want to attend.
The moment they stepped into the extravagant hall, Melissa and Taylor were already whispering like vultures circling fresh prey.
"Is that her?" Taylor nudged her mother sharply, her eyes wide with excitement. "Mom, look...look! That must be her. Damian's little mystery bride."
Melissa leaned slightly closer, lowering her voice as if she didn't intend the entire room to hear, even though she very much did.
"She's… okay" she muttered, squinting her eyes "Pretty. But just okay, and she looks so quiet. I expected Damian to marry someone from a powerful family. Not…" her gaze swept Ava from head to toe, "…that."
Scott's jaw tightened.
