Richard began handing out the boxes. First was Dana. She unwrapped a heavy, 18-karat gold tennis bracelet. She gasped, kissing Richard on the cheek.
Next was Preston, Chloe’s fiancé. Richard handed him a heavy, bespoke leather watch-winding case. “To keep that collection of yours ticking, son,” Richard chuckled. Preston offered a polite, practiced thank you.
Finally, Richard picked up a small, red Cartier box. He handed it to Chloe.
Chloe gasped, tearing into the ribbon. Inside was a diamond-encrusted panther ring. “Oh, Daddy! It’s beautiful! I love it!” Chloe shrieked, sliding it onto her finger and thrusting her hand out for Preston to admire.
Avery waited. She sat on the edge of her seat, her hands clasped in her lap, waiting for her name to be called. She didn’t need a Cartier ring or a gold bracelet. A book, a nice card, or even a simple acknowledgement of her presence would have sufficed.
The pile on the coffee table was gone.
Richard adjusted his cuffs, clearing his throat. “Well! I believe breakfast is served on the terrace. Shall we?” He turned to walk toward the french doors.
Avery felt a cold spike of confusion hit her chest. She stood up slowly. “Wait… Dad?”
Richard paused, turning around. He looked at Avery with a mixture of confusion and mild annoyance, as if a servant had interrupted him. “Yes, Avery? What is it?”
“I… was there a mix-up with the gifts?” Avery asked softly, her voice barely above a whisper. She hated how small she sounded. “I didn’t see my name on any of the boxes.”
