As I approached, Hudson's head appeared from beneath Harper's legs. The moment our eyes met, I noticed him holding her ankle. He quickly offered an excuse. "Harper’s foot was scraped. I was just putting a band-aid on it." Harper hurriedly withdrew her leg, blushing yet proud. "Aubrey, you’re so lucky. Hudson is always so thoughtful."
Their smiles radiated affection, a blatant display that cut through me like a knife. Were they really that eager to flaunt their relationship in front of me?
Standing there, watching them, I felt a deep, gnawing pain, as if my heart were being crushed in a vice. I gripped the lunch box tightly in my hand, forcing myself to stay calm. My voice trembled with barely contained fury as I pointed at Harper. "Why is she coming to see my mother? Don’t you know she can’t handle being provoked like this again? Get her out of the car!"
Harper's smirk faltered, quickly replaced by a facade of innocence. "Aubrey, don’t blame Hudson. I insisted on coming to see your mom. I’ve always wanted to apologize for what my parents did. I hope you can forgive me."