KENDRA
I locked my desk drawer, slipped the key into my purse, and told myself not to think about the note until morning. By the time I pulled into the driveway, the sky had turned a deep violet, and the first stars were beginning to show.
Pascal’s car was already in the garage. I exhaled slowly, grateful he was home before me for once.
Inside, the house was quiet. The staff had already left because I’d told them to. I wanted the night to be ours, without the constant rhythm of footsteps and polite questions. The kitchen felt bigger without them, full of untapped possibilities and the faint hum of the refrigerator.
I kicked off my heels near the door and rolled up my sleeves. I washed my hands and began prepping all I needed to make dinner.
I was just pulling out a pan when I heard hi
