As we drove away from the building, the reality of what had just transpired began to settle in. My heart was racing, a mixture of fear, relief, and disbelief. Damian had always been my protector, my confidant, and the one person who understood the weight of the expectations and judgments that often followed me. But even I hadn’t anticipated the swift retribution he would enact.
Once we were a safe distance away, Damian finally spoke again, his voice steady and reassuring. “You’re coming to stay with me. We’ll sort everything out from there.” It was more of a command than a suggestion, leaving no room for argument. I nodded, grateful for his support and the sanctuary he was offering.
As we drove through the city, my mind wandered back to the events of the morning. Catherine’s words had sliced through me like a knife. Her disdain for me was no secret, but the bitterness in her voice as she spat those words was something new, something raw. And Kenneth’s betrayal—a man I thought I knew, who had vowed to stand by me—was a wound that cut even deeper.
