I left the house ridiculously early the next morning. Partly because I was still avoiding Mason. But mostly because I was avoiding Chase and whatever chaos he planned to bring into my life next.
That man had the energy of someone who treated causing trouble like a full-time hobby.
By the time I parked outside work and stepped out of my car, I saw my parents rushing toward me.
“What are you doing here?”
Mom reached me first.
“Mia, please…” Her voice shook badly. “We’re sorry. I know I’ve been a terrible mother, but you’re still our daughter. Please forgive us. We are—”
“No,” I cut in. “Before you continue, let’s correct something first. You disowned me, remember? So don’t stand here calling me your daughter now.”
Dad stepped forward quickly. “Mia please,” he begged. “What we did was
