Since that night when Julian had stormed out on her, he hadnt returnednot once. And now, a week later, it was time for Grandma Hawthornes birthday banquet.

Lorna had texted her, relaying the old ladys request that she and Julian attend together.

Charlotte knew full well that, despite everything, she and Julian werent formally divorced. She was still the Hawthorne familys daughter-in-law, which meant no excusesnot on an occasion as significant as ...