Chapter 43

EVOLET

“She’s back?” I muttered to myself, dragging my half-asleep body to the edge of the bed. I grabbed the nearest blanket and wrapped it tightly around me, panic surging through my chest.

“I thought she was on her way to see her tailor! Why’s she back so soon?”

“Evolet, where are you?!” Mom’s voice rang again from downstairs, her tone urgent and drawing closer.

I swallowed hard. Her footsteps were approaching fast—each one echoing like a countdown to disaster. My pulse quickened.

What if she walks in here and finds me in bed with Cadell?! Oh Goddess, no!

I jumped up, nearly tripping over the blanket. My mind raced for an excuse, any excuse that could explain our compromising situation. I turned to warn Cadell, only to have the door swing open before I could take a single step.

Mom barged in.

And froze.

Her eyes went straight to the bed. Then her mouth dropped open.

I stood awkwardly in the middle of the room, clu