CHAPTER 186

Leon had left early that morning to meet with Jack, and I couldn't shake the feeling of

restlessness that lingered after our conversation. He’d insisted that I stay behind, reassuring me that he’d feel more at ease if he knew I was safe inside the house. I understood his concern—after all, Justin was still out there, and we had uncovered more than enough to make him dangerous—but I couldn’t help feeling a little stifled.

I wandered through the quiet house, feeling like I was a guest in my own life. Eventually, I found Aunt Lou in the kitchen, bustling about as she prepared breakfast with Letty.

“Good morning,” I said, stepping into the kitchen. The smell of fresh coffee and pancakes filled the air, but I didn’t feel hungry.

Aunt Lou looked up and smiled warmly. “Morning, Marga. How are you feeling?”

I forced a smile, not wanting to worry her. “I’m fine. Just… a little restless, I guess.”

Letty glanced over from the stove, where she was flipping pancakes. “Can’t blame you for that.