I Would Never Forgive You

The ride home was quiet, the low hum of the car the only sound filling the space. Leona stared out of the window, the city lights blurring past in streaks of gold and white. Her body was tired, but her mind kept circling around tomorrow’s trip. Stonehaven. The very thought of that city made her chest heavy, but determination sat firm in her heart.

When they reached the house, her driver came around to open the door. She stepped out slowly, clutching her bag close to her side. The porch lights glowed warmly against the night sky.

Inside, the faint smell of tea drifted through the hall. She found her father in the living room, sitting in his favorite armchair with a cup resting on the table beside him. The television was on low volume, though he seemed more lost in thought than actually watching it.

“Leona,” he greeted softly when he saw her, concern shadowing his eyes. “You’re home late.”

Leona dropped her bag onto the couch and sank into the seat opposite him. “Work ran longer than I