Chapter 23: The Invitation

I handed Marcus the gifts, and he laughed, saying I was too polite. I stared at him. “This week while I was gone, Natalie didn’t mess around, did she?”

I forced a smile, my voice light. I watched his eyes, searching for a flicker of guilt, any sign he knew I’d found him out.

Marcus’s hand paused. “Mess around? No? Damn, you still suspect your wife?”

He laughed, but it was forced. The tension in the room was palpable. He wiped his hands on his jeans, glancing away.

“Derek, let me tell you, men should be broad-minded. I think you’ve watched too many dramas at home—where in real life are there so many cheating stories?”

He launched into his usual speech, deflecting with bravado. For the first time, I heard how empty it sounded—how much he enjoyed being the one in control.

Watching him boast shamelessly in front of me—why didn’t I notice before how belittling his words were to me? Turns out, the so-called good brother, good friend, was just my wishful thinking. The last bit of hesitation about whether to expose everything vanished without a trace at this moment.

The truth was right in front of me, blaring like a siren. I clenched my fists, forcing myself to keep playing along.

“Mm, you’re right. I’ve learned.”

I let the words slip out, my tone soft, agreeable. He didn’t notice the steel underneath. My decision was made.

Then I invited Marcus, “Next week my father-in-law is turning sixty-five. Come have a drink.”

I leaned in, keeping my expression open, inviting. The next phase of my plan was already in motion.

He hesitated. “It’s a family dinner, maybe I shouldn’t go?”

He looked nervous for the first time. Maybe he sensed something was off, or maybe he just didn’t want to face the family he’d helped destroy.

I laughed. “What’s wrong with that? My father-in-law is throwing a big party. You’re my brother and Natalie’s boss—how could you not be family?”

I clapped him on the back, making sure to smile. I wanted him at that dinner. I needed him there. The trap was set.

Only then did Marcus agree.

He nodded, relaxing, the old grin sliding back into place. I knew he thought he’d gotten away with it. But the game was just beginning.

As Marcus finally agreed, I knew the stage was set. By next week, there’d be no more secrets left to hide.