Ann finally caught on, forcing a laugh. "So, Freya really is C! Looks like we, as her siblings, have been blind this whole time. And you, Freya-who would've thought you'd hide such an impressive identity from us?"

She turned to Forest, her smile growing even wider. "It's all just a

misunderstanding, Mr. Shepherd. C is actually my little sister-my real sister. My brother here is her biological brother too. We were just teasing Freya a moment ago!"

Truth was, Ann hated to admit that Caitlin was her sister. But now that Caitlin had turned out to be C, she wasn't about to risk her own interests. She'd play along for now—and what better chance to shine at tonight's gala than as C's older sister? Being in Caitlin's shadow for once wouldn't hurt her; in fact, it might even help.

So, she swallowed her pride and let it go.

Tammie, realizing what Ann was doing, quickly chimed in. "Exactly! Ann's right, Mr. Shepherd. We were only joking with my sister. We're family-honest! If you don't believe us, just ask her!"

Forest's expression tightened in skepticism.

Family? What kind of family doesn't recognize their own?

He turned to Caitlin. "Ms. C, may I confirm—are they related to you? If they really are, I'll arrange for them to be seated in the front row."

The front row!

Ann's eyes practically sparkled at the offer. Everyone knew those seats were reserved for the VIPS-the ones who'd be on camera and interviewed after the event. If she could sit there, she'd be interviewed as C's family!

The thought made her almost giddy with anticipation.

Tammie was just as eager, and he changed his tone with Caitlin. "Freya, I won't hold your past against you. Just tell Mr. Shepherd we really are family-we're not lying!"

After all, Tammie did share blood with Caitlin No matter how much siblings fight, they're still connected

ovel

at the core. Besides, he figured. Caitlin probably wanted to acknowledge him as her

ΟΛΟΙ

brother-she just never had the

chance or the pride to

it before Now, with the opportunity right in front of her and no need to

apologize, why wouldn't she take it? What girl didn't want a big brother doting on her?

He assumed Caitlin must have envied Ann all along. All she had to do was accept this olive branch, and she could have what Ann had-acceptance, status, the whole package.

He was certain Caitlin would go along with it.

But under their expectant stares, Caitlin looked at Forest and replied coolly, Mr. Shepherd, I'm not close to them. And honestly, I'd rather not. have such unpleasant people ruining my evening."

Caitlin wasn't a saint, and she wasn't in the habit of handing out forgiveness for free. She lived by one rule: do unto others as they do unto you.

Forest caught on immediately. "Understood, Ms. C. Say no more."

Ann's face drained of color, her smile frozen awkwardly in place. Tammie could only stare at Caitlin in utter disbelief.

He'd been willing to forgive her; he thought he was doing her a favor. But Caitlin hadn't even bothered to give him the time of day!

Before Tammie could protest, Forest stepped forward, making a polite but firm gesture toward the exit. "Impersonating Ms C's family, Mr. Gonzales, Miss Templeton, will you leave on your own, or shall I have someone escort you out?"