CHAPTER 190

The tension between Leon and me hung in the air long after our conversation ended. He had left the room, and I sat alone, staring at the spot where he’d knelt in front of me, asking for my trust. I wanted to give it to him, but Justin’s words kept circling in my mind, taunting me.

Was Leon protecting me, or was he protecting himself?

Hours passed, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that something bigger was at play. The shadows of the house felt heavier than usual, like they were holding secrets I wasn’t meant to uncover. I needed to get some fresh air, clear my head, and think without Leon hovering nearby.

I grabbed my jacket and quietly slipped out the back door. The night was cool, the breeze soft against my skin as I stepped into the garden. The moon hung low in the sky, casting long, eerie shadows over the grass. I walked aimlessly for a few minutes, trying to piece together what Leon had said.

"He’ll only try to manipulate you, Margarette, you can’t trust anything he says."

I wra