Chapter Eleven

The atmosphere at the dinner table was thick with tension, particularly between Amanda, Zion, and Ayva. Their stolen glances at each other were subtle yet noticeable, and Ayva clenched her fist by her side to keep herself calm. Amanda's parents seemed completely oblivious to the underlying tension.

"Ayva, I must say, you are the most beautiful pregnant woman I've ever seen," Brenda Kerrington complimented with a smile.

"Oh, thank you so much. You're too kind," Ayva replied, mirroring the expression, although her smile seemed forced and insincere. The way Zion nervously twiddled his fingers under the table spoke volumes - he clearly didn't want to be there.

"I heard you managed to secure a collaboration with T&K Designs." Thomas Kerrington chimed in, taking a sip of water as they waited for their food. "You truly are the best at what you do. My foundation has tried countless times to get T&K's attention. Your influence makes me want to tap into it. Maybe if they find out that I raised