Chapter 54

We left the hotel that night without saying much. Benjamin carried the bags while I held Daisy’s hand, her head leaning against my side as she drifted in and out of sleep. When we got to his mansion, everything felt too new and awkward. The wide hallways, the tall ceilings, and even the ticking of the clock on the wall sounded too loud.

Benjamin carried Daisy upstairs. I followed slowly, my chest heavy with dread. He carried her into his room, pulling the blanket up to her chin. She turned over, mumbling something in her sleep, and he brushed a hand over her hair. I stood at the doorway, watching, my throat tight. Why can't we just have peace together?

We left her door halfway open and went back downstairs. I sank into one of the couches, curling my hands together in my lap, while Benjamin sat across from me. He leaned back, legs spread slightly, his arm resting against the chair, but I could see the way his jaw was tight. He was trying to look calm, but the worry w