Arielle’s POV
I stood in front of the door with my heart thudding in my chest. I wasn’t sure if Mom was at work or not. After her phone call, I knew she’d still want to corner me, press me, and see if I was really telling the truth.
I sucked in a deep breath, held it for a moment, and exhaled slowly. Then I reached for the doorknob.
When I pushed the door open, the house was quiet—too quiet. Not a single sound drifted from the kitchen or the living room. It was as if no one was home.
I stepped inside carefully, my eyes sweeping around.
“He…hello?” I called softly.
“Arielle!” Soraya’s voice rang out, loud and cheerful, as she hurried down the stairs.
I quickly plastered on a smile, even though my insides twisted. I had secretly hoped it would just be Cassian here. But seeing Soraya b
