7

I giggled as I took a firm step toward the stairs. Jasper was already gone to his office.

"See you in the morning, Ember." He waved his hand over his shoulder without looking at me.

It was nine o'clock. Everly was still in the club with her friends and Luke also was there. They would return home together.

I twisted the knob and pushed it open. My eyes slightly widened seeing my mother sitting on the edge of the mattress. I gulped but managed a smile. "You did not sleep, Mom." I stepped into the room.

"I packed you things." Her eyes darted on the bags.

I followed her gaze and nodded, smiling at her. The awkward tension from before was gone when she returned the smile. "Thank you, Mom." Forwarding, I took her in a tight embrace.

Her shoulders were hunched and she patted my arm. "You're staying with your brothers at the villa. And weekends with Lance and Kat. No dormitory. No outing after sunset. You're calling me every evening be