Damian
The first night passed quietly at my parent's estate. After the awkward dinner, Ivy and I retreated to the guest room together. My parents hadn’t commented on the sleeping arrangements, but I knew they would have noticed. Everything at this house was noticed.
But for the first time in years, I didn’t care. Monday through Wednesday blurred into something almost surreal.
We settled into a quiet rhythm at the estate mornings on the patio with coffee, the sharp scent of the countryside mixing with her perfume as Ivy sat beside me, her legs curled under her, the corners of her mouth curled around a knowing smile. She was more relaxed here than I expected. Or maybe just less guarded. My parents were here as well. I thought they wouldn't be here this time of the year, but once they got
