Dead at Heart (Ariel and Jayson) novel Chapter 831

It was clear what Jayson meant by those words. He hadn't used any harsh language, yet Lucas felt as if his heart had been torn apart.

Lucas sat in silence, staring at the wedding invitation that had arrived in his inbox.

After a moment to cool down, the anger and indignation that had flared in his eyes faded into a deep sense of resignation.

Ever since he learned that Ariel was the one who had saved him years ago, Lucas knew—deep down—they could never return to what they once were. Still, he had clung to a sliver of hope that things might somehow turn around.

He had let Ariel down. Whether as her family or her first love, Lucas no longer had the right to interfere in her life.

"Did Ari ask you to send me the invite?" Lucas glanced at the airplane charm on the table—a gift Ariel had once made and given to him.

At one point, Lucas had passed the charm to Wendy, hoping Ariel would notice it. Eventually, he retrieved it from Wendy and kept it for himself.

"No," Jayson replied frankly. "Ari hasn't thought about you. Whether you're on the guest list or not doesn't matter to her anymore. You're no longer important to her. Still, if you choose to attend, we'll welcome you with warm hospitality."

Lucas snorted. "Mr. Larkin, why say things you don't mean? You clearly don't want me there."

It was obvious Jayson loathed him.

This wasn't a genuine invitation—it was a warning, a way to flaunt his and Ariel's relationship.

Lucas knew full well that Ariel would be uncomfortable if he showed up at the wedding.

So what would be the point of attending? To ruin her mood? To taint the beautiful memories she might have of her grand wedding with Jayson?

Jayson stared straight ahead, his expression calm. "It won't affect us whether you're there or not. I'll make Ariel happy, with or without your well wishes.

"Mr. Sanderson, whether in the past or present, you should understand by now—you're just you. You don't matter that much to us."

Lucas froze, a sharp ache piercing his chest.

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