Vivian’s pov

“Robert, please, just let me leave before this gets any worse,” I started, but the words died in my throat when a sharp knock hit the door hard enough to make me jump.

Daniel’s voice came through clear and casual from the other side.

“Dad? Are you free for a quick word? I was downstairs in the lobby and figured I’d swing up real quick before I head back.”

My heart stopped cold. Every drop of blood in my body seemed to freeze and then rush straight between my legs at the same time. Robert’s eyes locked on mine instantly. No panic on his face, just that same...