CHAPTER FIFTY-TWO

VENITA:

I carefully treaded through the house, my heart pounding so loudly it felt like it might escape my chest. The serendipitous emptiness of the house was in my favor, and with Sasha playing outside, my mission was shrouded in secrecy. I needed to find Landon, and I was willing to take the risk to get what I wanted.

The inexplicable pull in my chest led me to Landon's office. I stood at the door, ready to knock and confront him with my intentions, when I overheard a conversation that made me pause. It was Landon's voice, and I felt my heart sink as I listened.

"I can't be there tonight. Keep my side of the bed warm. Don't miss me too much," he said.

My world crumbled, and I ran to find a hiding spot, seeking refuge in the kitchen. Tears welled up in my eyes, and I couldn't help but question my actions. Rosalie had been right all along. What had possessed me to doll myself up, trying to seduce a man who hadn't shown an ounce of interest in me? He had reiterated countless times that