Miyah’s POV

The grand dining room in Kate’s mansion was as intimidating as ever. A crystal chandelier hung overhead, casting a soft glow on the polished table set with silverware so fancy I didn’t even know what half of it was for.

Zaire held my hand tightly as we walked in, his grip reassuring me that no matter what happened tonight, he had my back. Ashley, Zoey, Giovanni, and Malik trailed behind us, their presence a silent promise of support.

Then I saw her.

Chloe.

She sat at the far end of the table, her hair perfectly styled, a designer dress clinging to her petite frame. She looked like she’d stepped straight out of a fashion magazine. Kate’s eyes lit up when she saw her, and I immediately knew this wasn’t just a coincidence.

“Miyah,” Kate greeted me with a tight smile. “You made it.”

“Of course,” I replied, matching her energy. “Thanks for inviting me.”

She raised an eyebrow, her tone sharp. “It’s important for us to... blend as a family.”

Zaire’s jaw tightened, but I placed a hand on his arm, silently asking him to let it go.

We all took our seats, and as expected, I was placed directly across from Chloe.

“Zaire,” Kate began, her voice dripping with fake warmth, “I’m so glad you’re here tonight. You remember Chloe, don’t you?”

Zaire looked up from his plate, his tone flat. “Vaguely.”

Chloe’s laugh was soft and melodic, like she was trying too hard. “Come on, Zaire. We were kids, but I’m sure you remember more than that.”

I clenched my fork, feeling the heat rise to my face.

“So, Chloe,” I said, forcing a smile. “What do you do?”

She looked at me, her expression a mix of pity and condescension. “I work in fashion marketing. It’s a demanding field, but I love it. And you?”

“I run my own business,” I replied, keeping my tone calm.

“Oh, really? How... impressive,” she said, her voice laced with sarcasm.

Before I could respond, Kate cut in. “Chloe’s family is very well-connected. She’s worked with some of the biggest names in the industry.”

“That’s nice,” I said, keeping my voice steady. “Connections are important, especially when you need help getting ahead.”

The room went quiet, Chloe’s face falling slightly as she realized the jab. Ashley and Zoey smirked, clearly enjoying the tension.

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Zaire’s POV

I could see my mother’s plan unfolding in front of me, but it wasn’t working. If anything, Miyah was handling herself better than I expected. She was composed, confident, and sharp.

But Kate wasn’t done.

“Miyah,” my mother said, her voice too sweet to be genuine, “it must be hard adjusting to our world. I imagine things are very... different for you.”

Miyah set down her glass, her eyes locking on my mother. “You’re right. It’s different. But I’m a quick learner. And honestly, I think I’ve adjusted quite well.”

Kate smiled tightly, clearly annoyed that Miyah wasn’t taking the bait.

“Zaire,” Chloe chimed in, leaning forward slightly. “Do you remember that summer in the Hamptons? We had so much fun.”

“No,” I said bluntly, taking a sip of my drink.

Ashley stifled a laugh, and I could see Miyah fighting a smile.

My mother’s expression darkened, but she pressed on. “Well, Chloe and her family will be in town for a while. I’m sure the two of you could catch up.”

I set my glass down, my patience wearing thin. “Mum, if you’re trying to set me up with Chloe, just say that.”

The table went silent.

“Zaire,” Kate said, her voice tight. “That’s not what I’m doing.”

“It sure feels like it,” I shot back. “And I’m telling you now—it’s not happening. I’m with Miyah. End of story.”

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Miyah’s POV

Kate’s face turned red, but I wasn’t about to let her play the victim.

“With all due respect, Mrs. Sinclair,” I said, my voice calm but firm, “I don’t need your approval. I love Zaire, and he loves me. If you can’t accept that, then that’s on you. But I won’t let you disrespect me or our relationship.”

The room was dead silent.

Kate opened her mouth to respond, but Zaire cut her off.

“Mum, this is your last warning,” he said, his tone cold. “If you keep this up, I’ll have no choice but to cut you off. I won’t let you treat Miyah like this.”

Kate’s eyes widened, clearly shocked that Zaire was serious.

“You don’t mean that,” she said, her voice wavering.

“I do,” Zaire replied. “I love you, but I won’t let you come between me and Miyah. If you can’t respect her, then you can’t be a part of my life.”

Kate sat back, stunned into silence.

Ashley and Zoey exchanged satisfied looks, and I felt a wave of relief wash over me. For the first time, I felt like Zaire and I were truly a team.

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