Chapter 173

Zoe's POV

I was exhausted and pissed off by the time I got home. My feet ached from running barefoot, my body sore from hours of trying—and failing—to shift. At least no one had seen me. Our house sat at the very edge of the territory, tucked away from curious eyes.

I stood at the front door, hesitating. Something was boiling on the stove, the smell drifting through the open window, making my stomach twist. Hadn’t eaten since… what, two days ago? A sad excuse for a salad at work.

I knocked lightly, but Aunt Julie opened the door before I could even drop my hand. Her eyes were red, her face tight with that look—the same one she had when Dad got arrested. So, Xavier told her everything.

I dropped my gaze and walked past her, straight to my room. Xavier stood like he wanted to say something, but Aunt Julie stopped him with a look.

Inside, everything was too neat. Aunt Julie must’ve cleaned up after Dad and I left in a hurry. I peeled off my filthy clothes, turned on the bath, and sat on