The drive back to the mansion felt like a journey through the depths of hell. Ashley stared out the window, her reflection in the glass a ghostly image of the girl she used to be. The streets blurred into one another, but all she could see was the man’s face—the terror in his eyes, the sound of the gunshot, the lifeless body slumping in the chair.Rocco remained silent beside her, his eyes focused on the road. He seemed unaffected by what had transpired, as if it were just another day, another task checked off his list. But for Ashley, it was a turning point, a moment that would forever define who she was—and who she was becoming.By the time they arrived back at the mansion, the sun had set, casting long shadows across the grand estate. Ashley’s legs felt like they might give out as she stepped out of the car, but she forced herself to stand tall, to mask the turmoil raging inside her. She couldn’t afford to show weakness, not now, not ever.Rocco led her inside, the opulence of the
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