Chapter 27

Susan's fingers trembled as she pushed open the private room door.

Andrew Lucas's tall frame came into view, with Nicole Capra clinging to his shoulder like a delicate bird. The sight burned her eyes.

She instinctively wanted to flee.

Her hand froze on the doorknob. A self-mocking smile curled her lips. Why should she care about their sweet intimacy?

Taking a deep breath, she stepped inside.

The room was warm, yet Susan felt chilled to the bone. The painkillers were wearing off, and every step felt like walking on knives.

Crack!

The sound of shattering glass cut through the air.

Andrew's wineglass exploded in his hand. Blood mixed with red wine dripped from his knuckles.

"Andrew!" Nicole gasped, reaching for him.

He coldly avoided her touch, hiding his injured hand behind his back. His dark eyes locked onto Susan's trembling legs, a storm brewing in their depths.

"Who are you hurting yourself for, Andrew?" Ethan Sullivan teased as he sauntered over—only to freeze when he saw Susan.

His lighter clattered to the floor.

Her delicate profile glowed under the light, long lashes casting shadows. She reminded him of white magnolias in a misty southern rain.

"Let me help." Without thinking, he took her hand.

The moment their skin touched, Ethan's ears turned red. The usually smooth-talking Sullivan heir stammered, "I—I—"

Susan quickly pulled away, the cork popping free.

"Calvin! Pinch me!" Ethan suddenly whirled to grab his friend.

Calvin Grant rolled his eyes but obliged.

"It's real!" Ethan grinned like a fool, eyes shining. "I'm in love!"

Silence filled the room.

Susan couldn't help stealing a glance at this lively character, her lips quirking up. Who knew Nicole's brother could be so amusing?

Bang!

Andrew kicked over the coffee table.

Wine bottles rolled across the floor, dark liquid spreading like the murderous rage in someone's eyes.