He fiddled with his prayer beads, as if dealing with trivial matters.
"It's just furniture. I'll have movers relocate you tomorrow."
"Mia needs the sunny room upstairs for her health."
Every word was for Mia's benefit.
That room was crucial for my astronomical work, chosen specifically for me.
Now he was handing it over without a thought.
I scoffed.
"So, a sunny room will save her life? I didn't realize she was a plant. Can't she use the garden you designed if she needs sun? Does she need you to fight all her battles?"
Ethan snapped, "When did you become so cruel? Mia's suffered enough. How does helping her inconvenience you?"
Mia patted Ethan's chest, all worried smiles.
"Brother, stop. Don't fight because of me."
Her apparent selflessness only irked Ethan more.
"Mia, you're too kind. If Gia won't welcome you, I'll make sure you're comfortable elsewhere."
Before leaving, Ethan glanced at the untouched feast.
"Seems we won't be enjoying your grand meal, Gia. Keep it for yourself."
Blinded by his sister, Ethan had forgotten our anniversary entirely.
He only cared that Mia was back, unwilling to let her suffer even slightly.
After they left, I picked at the now-cold dinner.
Ethan having a soft spot for Mia was the least of his mistakes.
I vowed it would be his last.
Ethan's generosity towards Mia knew no bounds.
He casually gifted her all the limited-edition bags and designer jewelry I'd ordered.
Even with my years in the shopping trenches, I had to admit: high-end manipulation often uses the simplest tactics.
Oblivious Ethan, did you forget that was my money?
When I tried to collect my items at Hermès, the sales associate awkwardly hinted that Ethan had already swooped in with Mia.
Everything had been delivered to some swanky downtown apartment.
The two of them, looking cozy, went on a very public shopping spree.
Paparazzi even caught Capital Sage dropping millions to make his lady smile.
Ethan was using Mia to get under my skin.
Within hours, though, the rumor mill churned out a new story: Ethan had a fresh flame, and the first lady might be getting the boot.
This juicy scandal spread like wildfire, with everyone eager for the Shane family drama.
Given my moral high ground and Ethan's lofty Capital Sage status, the public naturally turned on the unknown Mia.
Unsurprisingly, Ethan called.
"Gia, got a sec?"
"Nope, busy reading about your sister being called a homewrecker."