~HUNTER~
The mansion feels different when we return. Colder. More formal. As if the lake house existed in another dimension—one where I could be someone else for a brief moment.
Caroline chatters the entire drive back, but I barely hear her. My thoughts are consumed by the woman sitting silently in the back seat with her son, the taste of her still staying on my lips.
By the time we arrive, I've made my decision. Whatever happened at the lake needs to end there. For both our sakes.
"I have calls to make," I announce as soon as we enter the foyer. "Vincent, my office. Ten minutes."
I don't look at Celine as I walk away. I can't.
The next morning, I'm back in control. Back to being Hunter Reid, CEO and heir to the Reid empire. Back to keeping my distance.
From my office window, I watc
