Chapter 18: Our Father Would Be Proud Of

"Hello, Mr. Blair," Maria said. "I'm Maria—I was married to Catherine's father. And this is my son, Samuel. Congratulations on your marriage, by the way."

There was a strange look in Maria's eyes, something like worry and mistrust. Catherine's stomach churned—she knew she deserved it, but it was painful to see. She swallowed hard and looked up at her stepmom again, and her heart froze. The look was directed at Sean—not at her. 

"Sean is great," Catherine said, trying to diffuse the tension. "I'm very blessed to have him as a husband."

The words eased some of the tension in the room, but it still lingered. Sean sat stiffly beside her, and Maria shot glances his way.

"I have to say you've changed, Catherine," Maria said. "I'm happy to see it."