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111- Audrey is worried.

Author: Hayley
last update Last Updated: 2025-04-08 03:10:37

MICHELL POV

It had been ten minutes since Victor left.

Ten minutes since he’d gone to “change.” Ten minutes since the farce began.

I drained the last of my scotch, set the glass down with a soft clink, and stood. The amber liquid still burned at the back of my throat, but it did little to quell the deeper fire simmering beneath my skin.

The corridors of the penthouse were dim, and quiet, like the house itself was holding its breath.

As I turned down the west hallway, voices drifted into earshot. One of them clipped and curt.

Victor.

“…Are you sure no one’s been in there?”

Rose’s warm, familiar tone answered with calm certainty. “Only Mr. Michell, sir. He stepped in days ago.”

I reached the edge of the corridor just as their eyes met mine.

Rose, flustered, dipped her head. “Excuse me.” She vanished down the hall without waiting for permission.

Victor and I stood there. No words. Just the low hum of air conditioning and the kind of silence that didn't beg to be broken—it dared you to.

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