CHAPTER 29: The cost of silence 

GINA'S POV

I could feel the tension in my blood reaching a boiling point before I even stepped outside the mansion, leaving Van behind as he watched me limp my way out.

I needed space to think clearly and act without my mother or Van's questioning eyes on me.

I took a deep breath as I passed the garden. The night's cool breeze tingled on my skin, and thoughts of the bastard waiting outside caused my hair to stand on end.

I was trying to shake off the dizziness from the fall and remain as calm as possible, still limping as I went.

My mind raced with thoughts of the person waiting outside and the implications of what they could mean for me.

I glanced back at the garden and saw that everyone was still there except for my mother and Van.

Before I left him in the mansion, I could sense his curiosity and concern but had no time to address them then or now. Though, I would never dare to address them.

I looked back to make sure I wasn't seen or being followed by anyone. Thankfully, I manage