Chapter 274. Violet’s Parents

Aurora’s POV

The hallway felt like it stretched on forever, each step echoing in my ears like a countdown to something inevitable. My palms were clammy, and no matter how many times I wiped them against my jeans, the sweat kept coming back. Caroline walked beside me in silence, her hands nervously picking at her sleeves, while Caleb kept pace on my other side. I kept my gaze fixed ahead, trying to keep my breathing steady, but it was useless. My heart felt like it was trapped in a cage, banging against my ribs, desperate to escape.

“Aurora,” Caleb said softly, breaking the silence. I turned to glance at him, and his face was laced with concern, even though he was trying to play it cool. “Ashton and Maggie are already in the office. We’re keeping Avery away for now… figured it’s better she doesn’t hear any of this yet.”

A lump formed in my throat at the mention of Avery. Sweet, innocent Avery. She didn’t deserve to be dragged into this yet—whatever this was.