Chapter 99. A Surprise Visitor

Vanessa's POV

I never expected that evening to turn the way it did. The day had gone by like a warm breeze—peaceful, quiet, just how I loved it when I was with Andre. We were supposed to spend the night watching an old romance movie curled up on the couch in the little safe space we'd created for ourselves. But fate had other plans.

I was in the kitchen, barefoot, making dinner. The smell of melted butter and garlic filled the air, my fingers working deftly on the chopping board. Andre was upstairs in the bedroom, adjusting the lights. The soft golden glow already spilled down the hallway, making everything feel warm and cozy. I smiled to myself, soaking in the silence.

That was when the doorbell rang.

I frowned, brows knitted together in confusion as I wondered if he was expecting someone and didn’t tell me, considering the circumstances surrounding our relationship. I didn’t want anyone to see us together, at least not for now.

I hesi