Chapter 24

Chloe’s POV

I was sitting in the living room when Drake arrived.

I did not hear the gate open. I did not hear the car. I only knew he was there when the energy in the house shifted. The guards outside straightened. Footsteps moved faster. Doors opened and closed with purpose.

Mrs. Grace came in first.

“He is here,” she said quietly.

My chest tightened.

I stood up slowly, smoothing my hands over my thighs. I had been wearing one of the simple dresses from the closet he provided. Soft fabric. Neutral color. Clothes that made it easy to forget I was not living my own life.

Drake entered moments later.

He looked tired. Not drunk like the last time. Not reckless. His face was hard. Focused. His jacket was still on. His jaw was tight.

He did not kiss me.

That alone told me everything.

“We need to talk,” he said.

I nodded. “I know.”

He looked at me sharply. “What do you know?”

“Jack was near my old a