Chapter 223

In the evening, smoke curled lazily in the backyard of Ethan Shaw and Celeste's suburban villa. The grill was already set up. Alan Parker was fiddling with the charcoal, Alice Morgan and Ava Quarles were busy in the kitchen skewering meats and veggies for the barbecue, while Martin Palmer handled the hot pot base. Celeste hadn't gotten off work yet, but most of the crew had already arrived. Caleb Summers and Lily Garland showed up last, carrying a box with a tiramisu cake inside. Mr. Foster took the cake and paused, a bit puzzled. "Someone's birthday today? What's with the cake?" Caleb replied casually, "Nah, just didn't want to show up empty-handed. Saw a cake shop on the way and picked one up. Figured everyone could have some later after dinner." Lily tightened her grip on Caleb's arm while smiling effortlessly. "Yeah, just something random we brought." "Alright, I'll stick it in the fridge for now." Mr. Foster pointed toward the backyard. "Everyone's out back with Mr. Shaw and his w