The next day arrived quickly—it was Roger’s birthday.
The Quinn family estate was lit from end to end, glowing with decorations. Luxury cars lined the long driveway in an unbroken stream. The entire place felt grand, alive with energy.
A group of young women from prominent families stood together, chatting with excitement.
“Mr. Quinn’s birthday party is huge.”
“Well, of course it is. The Quinn family went all out this time. Every major name in the business world is here.”
“Look—Mr. Quinn’s coming out.”
The man of the hour finally appeared.
Roger stepped out in a black suit, leaning lightly on a cane. His eyes were clouded with age, but a sharp glint still lingered—proof of a lifetime spent in power.
People immediately gathered around him, smiling, offering congratulations.
“Mr. Quinn, wishing you a long life and continued success.”
Roger laughed warmly. “Thank you, everyone. It means a lot that you came to celebrate with me. We’re honored to host you.”
“You’re too kind.”
Ivy’s mother, Tabitha, stayed close behind him.
“Ivy and Nathan should be arriving soon.”
Roger nodded. “I’m sure they’re on their way.”
Just then, Edric walked over.
“Hey, Dad.”
Though he and Tabitha were still technically married, they had long since become strangers—worse than strangers. They hadn’t seen each other in quite some time.
Now, standing face-to-face, Tabitha shot him a cold glance.
These days, all she felt toward Edric was resentment. The one thing she had always been proud of in her life was Ivy—a daughter who was capable, thoughtful, and dependable.
Roger spoke calmly. “You’re back. Today’s my birthday. The guests are already here—go greet them together.”
That was how wealthy families operated. No matter how ugly things were behind closed doors, none of it could show in public. Even if it was all an act, they had to look united.
But Edric didn’t move.
He hesitated, clearly struggling.
“Dad, actually…”
Roger’s gaze sharpened. “What is it?”
Edric took a breath. “It’s your birthday. Kate is your granddaughter too. She wants to come and wish you a happy birthday.”
“What did you say?” Tabitha snapped instantly, like a fuse had been lit. “You want to bring that illegitimate girl into this house?”
Edric’s expression darkened. “Who are you calling illegitimate? Kate is my daughter.”
“She may be your daughter, but she was born from an affair.”
Tabitha didn’t hold back.
“That woman outside has you completely blinded. Look around—do you even understand what kind of event this is? Every important person in the city is here. If that girl shows up, the Quinn family will be a joke by tomorrow morning. You abandoned your wife and daughter to keep another woman, and now you think that’s something to flaunt?”
Edric’s face flushed with anger. “Can you be reasonable for once? Kate exists. That’s reality. Are we supposed to hide her forever?”
“That’s your problem—not mine,” Tabitha shot back. “All I know is Ivy is the only daughter of the Quinn family.”
“You’re impossible,” Edric said through clenched teeth.
Roger watched them, their voices rising, their tempers flaring.
Then he spoke.
“That’s enough.”
His voice cut cleanly through the tension.
“You’ve been arguing for twenty years. Haven’t you had enough? Because I have. Do you see people watching? Are you trying to embarrass me on my birthday?”
Under his pressure, Edric fell silent, unease flickering across his face.
Even so… he still wanted to speak for Kate.
