Kaelen POV
The man in the black hoodie is gone, but I do not relax.
Dave calls back two minutes later. "Boss, we lost him. He disappeared into the trees behind the gate. My men are searching."
"Keep looking. Double the patrols."
"Yes, sir."
I slip my phone back into my pocket. The driveway is empty now. The staff has gone inside. Mary is fussing over Naomi in the kitchen. Alex is running through the halls, showing his grandmother's gifts to anyone who will look.
I stand alone on the front steps. The sun is warm. The garden is green. But I feel cold.
He was watching her. Watching us.
I walk inside.
The noise hits me first. Laughter. Clattering dishes. Alex's high‑pitched squeals. It sounds like a home. It sounds like something I do not deserve.
I climb the stairs. I need a drink.
