Gloria POV
I gestured for Carol to come inside, immediately catching the tense, protective look Leo shot her. 'She deserves a chance, Leo,' I told him privately through our mind link. He looked over at me, his expression softening, and gave a tight nod. "Come here," I said, reaching a hand out to Carol. When she stepped closer, I pulled her down into a hug. She held onto me tightly, her body trembling as she began to cry softly. I looked past her shoulder at Clive, Addie, and Leila. "Can you please give us a minute?"
The women nodded, offering reassuring smiles, while Clive flashed me a sassy wink before they all left the room and closed the door. I gently rubbed Carol's back as Leo stepped closer. I knew he was probably worried she might harm me, but his instincts were wrong this time.
