Hiding Secrets

Jax POV

When I wake up, the bed beside me is empty. Dhalia is already up and out, leaving me to face waking up alone. We didn’t get back until nearly four in the morning, and the weight of last night’s events lingers heavily in my mind. Her words echo in my thoughts, and I find myself strangely comforted by them, even as doubt creeps in.

“Morning,” Chase greets me with a smile as I walk into the kitchen. I sit down, sensing the tension in the air. Something’s off, something big, but Dhalia doesn’t seem to know. It’s clear from her cheerful demeanour that she’s oblivious to whatever has everyone else on edge.

I eat in silence, choosing to ignore the underlying tension for now. “What’s your plan for today, Sweetness, now that you’re safe?” I ask, trying to keep things normal.

“Today, I have something planned,” she replies, grinning at me. “I’m going out, meeting Keeley, and then I’ll be back here later.” Her smile is infectious, and despite everything, I can’t help but smile back at her