The morning sunlight filtered softly through the curtains, casting a warm glow across Ronan’s room—their room now. Evelyn moved with her usual quiet grace, slipping on her silk robe, her steps unhurried as she finished her makeup at the vanity. Her jewelry glinted faintly in the morning light—simple, elegant, but intentional. Today wasn’t about making a statement inside the compound. It was about showing she didn’t need permission to live her life outside of it. Behind her, she heard the low rustle of fabric as Ronan dressed, pulling on his jeans and shirt, his movements steady, efficient. She didn’t glance back at him. She didn’t need to. As she fastened her earrings, she spoke—her tone soft, but firm and without question. “I’m heading into town today,” she said, her voice smooth

