Chapter 23

Zoe’s POV

Once dessert was finished, I quickly said my goodbyes, eager to leave. Xavier offered to drive me home since he had some business in my pack. I nodded, not wanting to argue, and we walked toward his car. Just as we were about to get in, he patted his pockets and frowned.

"I think I left my phone on the table. I’ll be right back," he said before turning back toward the restaurant.

I stood beside the car, watching the snowfall gently coat the ground. The scenery was beautiful, yet something about the lunch left a bad taste in my mouth. I felt uneasy.

"Well done. I’m honestly amazed."

A familiar, condescending voice made me whirl around. John approached, his expression a mask of sarcasm, but his voice was tight with fury.

I tensed, glancing around for Xavier. Nowhere in sight.

"Looking for Xavier?" John sneered. "Stay away from him!" He grabbed my arm roughly, yanking me toward him. I gasped, struggling against his grip.

"Let me go!" I glared up at him, my voice shaking with ang