CHAPTER 187

ELLA'S POV

The looming structure of my late father's factory sent a chill down my spine.

I stood frozen, my eyes tracing the brick and rusted metal, trying to reconcile this imposing structure with the man I thought I knew. How had I never known about this place?

Finding this place hadn't been easy. I'd had to swallow my pride and visit Mr. Matthews' office, enduring his scrutiny as I fabricated a reason for my sudden interest in Dad's past.

"A factory?" Mr. Matthews had leaned back in his leather chair, eyebrows raised. "How did you stumble upon that little tidbit, Ella?"

I'd fidgeted with the strap of my bag, avoiding his piercing gaze. "Mom mentioned it. In passing. I just... I want to understand him better, you know?"

Mr. Matthews had drummed his fingers on the desk, his eyes never leaving my face. "And what exactly do you hope to find there, hmm? Ghosts of the past? Or something more... tangible?"

I'd forced a casual shrug, praying he couldn't hear my racing heart. "Just answer