Gabrielle’s POV
The house felt heavier than usual, like the walls themselves were holding their breath. I paced the length of Matthew’s study, waiting for him to return from his endless meetings. My nerves were frayed from Ruelle’s ominous threat, and I couldn’t keep the questions swirling in my mind any longer.
When Matthew finally entered the room, his face was a picture of exhaustion. His sharp suit was wrinkled, and his tie hung loosely around his neck. He barely looked at me as he tossed his coat onto the nearest chair.
“Matthew,” I started, trying to steady my voice. “We need to talk.”
“Not now, Gabrielle,” he said dismissively, running a hand through his disheveled hair.
“No.” I stood firm, my hands on my hips. “Now.”
He froze, his piercing gaze finally locking onto mine. I co
