Kelly POV
I didn't mean to slip away.
That was the lie I told myself later. It helped me breathe when the walls felt too close, and the darkness dragged on.
I told myself it was just errands, just time away from the estate. Adrian's tension overflowed, and Thorne watched me like I might shatter at any moment.
The estate had always felt stifling. The air grew heavier with every wary glance and whispered conversation. Adrian's tension brewed like a storm beneath the surface, making it all feel even more unbearable.
It was as if the very walls were conspirators, reminding me of my vulnerability and the expectations placed on me.
See where that got me? I truly wanted a little time to enjoy life by myself, away from the pressure and the constant strain.
