Veronica called Marco back to inquire about his call from two days prior.

"Nothing urgent," he replied casually. "Cecelia just wanted to video chat with you. That's all."

Their conversation remained brief as both needed to get to work. After ending the call, Veronica grabbed her keys and headed to her car.

By some twist of fate, she pulled into the office parking lot at the exact moment Dario did. They emerged from their respective vehicles, exchanging glances.

"Welcome back," Dario greeted her with a genuine smile.

Veronica's face brightened. "Thanks, it's good to be back."

Their moment was interrupted by the sound of an approaching vehicle. Cullen's sleek car glided into the lot, stopping directly in front of them rather than parking in a designated space. Niall sat in the passenger seat, her posture perfect and composed.

The couple stepped out together, their movements synchronized like a well-rehearsed dance.

"Good morning, Mr. Reid," they both said, their voices carrying a politeness that felt rehearsed.

Dario's expression instantly darkened. Just what he needed to start his day.

Without acknowledging Cullen or Niall, he gently took Veronica's elbow and guided her toward the building entrance. The deliberate snub didn't seem to faze the couple at all.

As Veronica and Dario walked away, Cullen handed his car keys to Niall and opened the driver's door for her. His voice softened to a tender murmur. "Drive carefully."

A satisfied smile played on Niall's lips as she took the keys. Her gaze lingered on Cullen before darting toward Veronica's retreating figure. "I will."

Inside, Dario cast a backward glance while waiting for the elevator. Cullen was nowhere to be seen.

"Still playing the perfect boyfriend out there, I guess," he muttered. As the elevator doors closed, he added with a hint of irritation, "Arriving together this early in the morning... are they living together now?"

Veronica had no definitive answer. Even if they weren't sharing a home, Cullen's actions spoke volumes. He had personally picked Niall up first thing in the morning, despite having a driver at his disposal. For Niall, Cullen never considered any gesture too troublesome—their relationship appeared unshakeable.

Two days later, with Cecelia's birthday approaching, Veronica stopped by a mall after work. She carefully selected an adorable pink bunny plushie, its soft fur and charming face certain to delight any child.

Arms filled with the fluffy creation, she stepped into the elevator—only to find Niall and Sophia already inside.

Niall's eyes fell on the pink bunny, automatically assuming it was meant for Sabrina. A subtle smirk appeared on her face. Since Sabrina had started spending time with her, the little girl had developed more sophisticated tastes, outgrowing childish toys like stuffed animals.

In Niall's mind, Veronica's choice only highlighted how disconnected and clueless she was about her own daughter's evolving preferences. With a dismissive glance, Niall turned away.

Sophia barely acknowledged Veronica's presence. After a fleeting look, her attention returned to Niall, patting her granddaughter's arm with unmistakable pride. The message couldn't have been clearer—in Sophia's world, Niall was the only granddaughter who mattered now.

Veronica remained unaffected by their coldness. Upon reaching her floor, she exited without a word and made her way to the parking lot.

The following morning, just as Veronica was finishing her coffee, her phone rang. It was Malcolm. She listened intently to what he had to say.

"Alright, I understand," she responded, her tone serious.

The moment the call ended, she immediately dialed Marco.

"Something urgent came up for tomorrow morning," she explained. "I won't be able to make it to Cecelia's birthday celebration. I'll prepare the cake tonight, though. Would you mind stopping by my place to pick it up along with her gift? And please let her know how truly sorry I am for missing it."

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