Chapter 6
When Clara and Margaret re-entered the dining room, the atmosphere had shifted perceptibly. Richard was pouring himself a fresh cup of coffee, while Daniel stood by the window, staring out into the night with his hands shoved deep into his tuxedo trouser pockets. He turned sharply as the door opened, his eyes scanning both women for any sign of alliance or betrayal.
"Everything sorted out with the knitting project?" Daniel asked, his tone laced with heavy sarcasm.
"Everything is quite clear, Daniel," Clara said smoothly, walking back to her seat and picking up her small evening clutch from the chair. "I need to go up and say goodnight to Lily. It’s past her bedtime, and she has school tomorrow."
Daniel didn't move from his spot by the window. "I’ll walk you out."
"There’s no need, Daniel. My car is parked right by the front steps."
"I insist," he said, his voice carrying an edge that brooked no argument. It wasn't chivalry; it was a desperate need for a final word, a private moment away from his parents to regain the upper hand.
Clara hesitated for a brief second, then nodded. "Fine. Let's go."
Margaret watched them leave with a look of quiet dread on her face. Richard placed a comforting hand on his wife’s shoulder, saying nothing as the heavy oak doors clicked shut behind the departing couple.
The front foyer was cavernous and cool, lit by a single sconce that cast a warm glow over the polished marble floor. Clara walked toward the heavy double doors, her heels clicking rhythmically against the stone, but Daniel stepped into her path, blocking her exit. He was close enough now that she could smell the faint scent of bourbon and cedarwood on his tuxedo.
"What did you say to my mother?" Daniel asked, his voice low and tense.
"We talked about Lily," Clara replied calmly, not backing down an inch. She looked straight into his eyes, refusing to show any intimidation. "And we talked about you, Daniel. You look like you haven't slept in three days. You’re unraveling, and you’re taking everyone down with you."
"I don't need your pity, Clara," he hissed, his jaw clenching. "And I certainly don't need you discussing my professional life behind my back with my parents."
"Someone has to be realistic about your professional life because you clearly aren't," Clara shot back, her restraint finally wearing thin. "You’re hiding behind lawsuits and petty invoices because you can't face the fact that your business is failing. Pride is a very expensive luxury, Daniel. And your daughter is paying the emotional interest on it."
Daniel flinched as if struck, the color draining from his face. For a fraction of a second, the defensive mask slipped, revealing the terrified, exhausted man underneath. But the moment passed quickly, replaced by a cold, defensive fury.
"Get out," Daniel whispered.
May you like
"I am leaving," Clara said, opening the heavy front door and stepping out into the cool night air. "And tomorrow, we are talking to a mediator about restructuring the custody schedule so Lily doesn't have to watch you self-destruct."
***
