Chapter 67

The morning felt heavy, even though the house was quiet. Sunlight spilled through the curtains, brushing over the bed where Benjamin was sitting, already dressed for work. He sat at the edge, tying his shoes with a serious expression on his face.

I leaned against the doorway, holding my coffee mug, watching him. He looked up at me, his eyes sharp, the way they always were when something troubled him.

“Elizabeth,” he said, his voice calm but firm, “listen to me. Don’t do anything without telling me first.”

I frowned. “What do you mean?”

He sighed, pulling his tie straight, then came closer. His hand touched my arm, warm and steady, but his eyes pinned me in place. “I know you. You act on emotion. If Dennison tries to reach you, don’t meet him, don’t call him to meet up. Not without me. Promise me.”

The weight in his tone made my chest tighten. “Benjamin…”

“Promise me,” he repeated, softer now but still firm.

I let out a shaky breath. “I won’t