Veronica wrapped up her call with a note of finality. "I need to get back to work now, so I'll hang up."
"Bye, Mom!" After ending the call, she quickly finished her breakfast before heading to the office.
Yesterday had been a whirlwind of activity, and today promised to be just as demanding. Despite the workload, she managed to duck out slightly early in the afternoon, making her way back to the Murray residence to share lunch with Mary.
Upon arrival, Veronica immediately sensed something was off. Mary's usual cheerful demeanor seemed subdued, and a quick scan of the living room confirmed Sabrina's absence. Most likely, her daughter was out enjoying dinner with Cullen.
While Veronica maintained her composure about the situation, Mary's concerns were written clearly across her face. She regarded Veronica with a serious expression.
"Ver," Mary began with unmistakable worry in her voice, "when your schedule eases up, you really should make more time for Sa. Otherwise..." The implication hung heavily between them.
"I know. I will," Veronica responded distractedly, eager to change the subject. "Let's eat first."
Mary released a resigned sigh, allowing the matter to drop for now.
After their meal, Veronica lingered for casual conversation before retreating upstairs to rest. Around 9:00 pm, she descended the staircase just as the security intercom buzzed, announcing a visitor.
Peering at the monitor, she recognized Cullen's car immediately. Her brow furrowed in displeasure. Before she could decide how to respond, her phone rang - Sabrina was calling.
Mary emerged from her room, quickly assessing the situation. Realizing Cullen was bringing Sabrina home, she promptly instructed security to grant him entry.
Veronica answered her daughter's call, exchanged a few brief words, then disconnected as Cullen's car pulled up to the entrance.
Sabrina bounded out of the vehicle with childish excitement. "Mom, I'm back!" she announced brightly.
Veronica forced a faint smile in response while Mary greeted her granddaughter with genuine warmth.
Cullen remained in the car momentarily, the door still open. Then he emerged, carrying Sabrina's forgotten backpack and a cake box, making his way toward mother and daughter.
Veronica maintained her silence, tension evident in her posture.
Sabrina suddenly realized her oversight. "Thank you, Dad!" she exclaimed gratefully.
Cullen acknowledged her with a quiet hum, his gaze shifting between Veronica and Mary. "Madam Jayden, good evening," he offered politely.
Mary responded with nothing more than a curt nod. Seeing no alternative, Veronica reached out to take the cake box from Cullen's hands.
Sabrina began enthusiastically, "Mom, the cake tastes—" but Veronica swiftly interrupted her.
"Sa, say goodbye to your dad," she instructed firmly.
Sabrina accepted the abrupt shift. "Is Dad leaving already?"
"Yeah," Cullen replied with a forced smile.
"Alright. Goodbye, Dad!" Sabrina chirped.
"Goodbye." With those parting words, Cullen gave Mary a respectful nod before turning toward his car.
Veronica, balancing the cake box in one hand while holding Sabrina's hand with the other, led her daughter inside without sparing Cullen a backward glance.
Moments later, the sound of Cullen's departing car filled the brief silence.
Once inside, Sabrina's excitement bubbled over. "Mom, Granny, this is the cake Dad and I bought for you. It's your favorite flavor—strawberry! You should try it!"
Veronica detected the subtle fragrance of Niall's perfume clinging to Sabrina's clothes. She placed the cake on the counter, maintaining her composure. "I just ate, so I'm not really hungry right now. Let's save it for later."
Mary nodded in agreement, reinforcing Veronica's position.
"Oh..." Sabrina's enthusiasm deflated as she absorbed their lukewarm response.