CHAPTER SIXTY THREE – WHAT HAPPENS IN THE FAMILY STAYS IN THE FAMILY

In the weeks following the charity ball debacle, Kayla found herself increasingly isolated from Lance's world. Barbara had become an insidious, ever-present force, expertly manipulating situations to drive a wedge between them. It began subtly at first – sudden family obligations that required Lance's presence, leaving Kayla behind. A last-minute museum gala honoring the Storm family legacy. An exclusive country club golf tournament that Barbara insisted her son attend. With each event Lance was whisked away to, Kayla could sense the growing distance between them. Longing glances and brief embraces slowly gave way to terse phone calls and impersonal texts about his hectic schedule. "I'm so sorry, Kayla, Mother has me committed to this yacht club dinner honoring our charitable foundation's top donors," Lance's voice crackled through the phone one evening. "I'll try to slip away as early as I can." But he never did. Kayla would spend those nights alone, wondering if Barbara was inten