~CHAPTER NINETY SEVEN~
I adjust myself on the bed, sitting properly this time, trying to settle my thoughts. “She’s the girl Hardin’s parents approve of… my replacement, to be direct,” I say, watching Cassie closely.
Her reaction is instant.
Cassie jerks upright like I just set the bed on fire. “Shut up. Are you serious?” she blurts, eyes wide, voice climbing in disbelief as she scrambles fully onto the bed. She folds her legs under her, turning to face me completely, searching my face for any sign I’m joking.
I don’t smile.
“Mhmm,” I hum quietly. “Valentina—that’s Hardin’s mother. The woman you saw downstairs.” I pause, then add, “She treats Ivy like she’s already her daughter in-law.”
Cassie lets out a breath, dragging her hand over her hair as she processes that. “And your husband
