Chapter 46

CASSANDRA'S POV~

The moment I shut Adriano’s door behind me, it felt like I was locking myself out of something I didn’t even know I needed until now.

My steps faltered, my fingers tightening around the strap of my bag as the echo of his voice—so cold, so wounded—rattled in my ears. The look on his face when I said those words… God, I wish I could take them back. I wish I could rewind time and stop my own mouth from moving.

But I didn’t go back.

I couldn’t.

I just walked faster, like creating distance between us would somehow protect me from the damage I’d already done. My chest ached with every step, and my vision blurred with the sting of tears that I fought tooth and nail to hold back. I wouldn’t cry here. I wouldn’t let them see me break.

The guards bowed their heads politely as I passed. I smiled—or tried to. It came out crooked and pitiful, like my lips had forgotten how to stretch without trembling. The driver opened the SUV door, and I almost told him not to bother. I wanted t