Aria moved into the mansion with heavy steps, each one tinged with irritation. She hated herself a little for it, hated that even now, after everything, she was following Kieran’s curt order to “go and clean up.” But she wanted the weight of blood and dirt and fear off her skin more than she wanted to rebel.The front hall was warm, golden with lamplight. Mira stood there waiting, her hands flying to her mouth the moment she saw Aria. Her soft eyes brimmed with tears, and before Aria could say anything, the woman swept forward and kissed her cheek with a trembling tenderness.“Oh, my sweet girl,” Mira whispered, voice thick. “I was so scared you weren’t coming home.”Aria’s chest clenched, guilt mixing with relief. She leaned into Mira’s touch, inhaling the faint lavender scent clinging to her apron.“Can I get you anything? Anything at all?” Mira asked quickly, her hands still holding Aria’s arms as if to make sure she was real.Aria opened her mouth, unsure what she even needed, whe
Last Updated : 2025-08-26 Read more