~CHAPTER TWENTY THREE~
I glance at my phone and see the message from Hardin, curt and commanding as always: “Be home immediately.”
I let out a sigh and turn to Cassie, using it as my perfect excuse to escape. “He… wants me back at the house,” I tell her, shrugging as if it’s no big deal. “I better go.”
Her eyes widen, a mix of tease and playful protest, but I ignore it. “I’ll see you soon,” I add, giving her a quick smile before moving toward the door.
The chauffeur is already there, helping me load my bags with meticulous care.
I cradle Snow in my arms, his tiny paws kneading against my chest, and for a moment, I let myself linger, feeling the weight of leaving my home.
The car door opens, and I pause, taking a long, steadying breath. My gaze sweeps over the house one last time: th
