Chapter 2

We had never gotten along, but we always pretended to be harmonious in front of my father.

Rose didn't expect me to address it directly at this moment.

She felt guilty and her eyes reddened, quickly filling with tears.

“I'm sorry. There are too many guests, and I accidentally left you off. Since everything's arranged, I can't put your name on the guest list.”

She bit her lip in frustration before she continued, “How about this? Eric and I will take you out for a meal as an apology tomorrow. Would that be okay? Please don't be mad, or should I call Eric right now to see if he can adjust the list?”

She made a show of pulling out her phone to make the call.

Upon hearing this, my stepmother became terribly anxious and hurriedly stopped her.

“We haven't been any help with the engagement party as it is. We can’t bother Eric over such a small thing. What if it upset him? How will Rose cope if she suffers after marrying into their family?”

“It's just an engagement, not a marriage. A meal alone with Eric and your sister should settle it.”

My father pondered for a moment and seemed to agree.

“Yes, it's just an engagement. Why not give my invitation to Jessica? Mrs. Alsop and I can use one invitation, that should be fine.”

Upon hearing this, Rose became anxious when she rubbed her eyes, looking vulnerable, and her expression became troubled.

It was clear she really didn't want me to go.

I looked deeply at Rose and said to my dad, “It's okay, Dad. You guys go without me.”

“Like you said, it's only an engagement. Going to the wedding will be just the same.”

“Exactly! Jessica is so understanding.”

My stepmother quickly chimed in, a broad smile playing on her lips.

Across from me, Rose glanced at me triumphantly.