Chapter 64

NICOLE

" Thank you so much for the food" I gestured to Mia, as she cleared the table.

A small smile formed on her face as she got the message I was sending to her.

After finishing my meal, I quietly slipped away to the bathroom. Once inside, I promptly bolted the door, taking precautions in case Marcus attempted to enter.

Just as I settled in the bathroom, I heard the unmistakable sound of footsteps nearing the door. Sure enough, it was Marcus, his hands gripping the doorknob, ready to twist it open.

"It's locked, buddy!" I called out with a mischievous grin. "I knew you'd try to come in, so I beat you to it and locked it from the inside."

A satisfying hum escaped my lips as I imagined the disappointment on his face when he realized he wasn't getting in.

His footsteps fading away toward the bedroom brought me a sense of relief, and I let out a sigh. Finally, some peace and privacy.

However, my relief was short-lived as I heard the distinct clanking of keys in Marcus' hands. Panic wel