Chapter 74

Thomas’s heart thumped in his chest the moment he stepped across the threshold of his childhood home. The familiar scent of polished wood and old photographs filled his nostrils, but he felt anything but at ease. By his side, Cassandra paused on the threshold, placing a hand on the doorframe as though gathering courage. Before he could muster a greeting, his parents swept forward, arms wide, beaming at Cassandra as if she were the long-lost child who’d just returned from a great adventure.

“Cassandra! Oh, my dear, it’s so wonderful to see you!” his mother cried, her eyes shining. His father’s hearty clap on Cassandra’s shoulder echoed through the entryway. Thomas opened his mouth to protest—Hey! I’m the son here!—but the sight of his wife’s radiant smile, her cheeks flushed with pleasure at this warm reception, silenced him. He let his grievances lodge quietly in his chest, where they festered and pressed at his ribs.

They didn’t so much as glance his way. Without hesita