Ava's eyebrows pressed against her forehead. She didn't expect Jeremy to speak that clearly in front of his mother.

"W-what do you mean, Sir? Eva could say that because I was staying at your house. She thought we were familiar. She misunderstood."

Jeremy sighed in resignation. "I don't like pretending, Ava. Our relationship doesn't need to be hidden anymore."

Ava was stunned. Before her brain could think of a word, Jeremy grabbed her wrist, inviting her to turn to face Vivian.

"Mom, Ava ...