Julia's POV
"Then I'm not attending that dinner," Gavin declared, his voice cutting through the tension like a blade. The words came out sharp and bitter, each syllable dripping with frustration that made my heart race.
His dark eyes locked onto Mom's face with an intensity that could have burned through steel. "If this is how you both want to handle things, if you're going to keep pretending this isn't real, then count me out. I won't be there."
Mom's expression hardened, her chin lifting defiantly. "Perfect. Stay home then, Gavin. Keep acting like you're above everyone else, keep pretending you're so strong and righteous. But let me make one thing crystal clear to you." Her voice rose with each word. "Julia will never be yours. She's your sister, and that's the only relationship you'll ever have with her."
