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The sound of a car pulling up in front of the estate echoed through the halls, causing Lucas to tense as he stood at the window, watching the sleek black sedan come to a stop. He knew it was Mira before he even saw her. His aunt had sent word that she would be arriving that morning, and as much as he had tried to prepare himself for the inevitable, it still felt like a blow to the chest.
Emily was somewhere in the house, likely keeping her distance. She hadn’t taken the news of Mira’s arrival well, and Lucas couldn’t blame her. He had reassured her again and again that he didn’t want this—didn’t want Mira—but words seemed to fall flat against the reality of the situation.
The driver stepped out and opened the door for Mira. She emerged gracefully, her tall, slender frame draped in a
