SYDNEY'S POV

As I pulled up to Dad's mansion, I took a deep breath, mentally preparing myself for the inevitable confrontation. I knew he wouldn't be pleased with me showing up without Mark; he always wanted me to scurry after Mark like some lost puppy. For a while, I admitted, I had actually scurried after him. I had practically changed my life to satisfy them. I took a deep breath and stepped out of the car.

I made the short walk to the mansion's courtyard; the courtyard faced the well-kept garden. I had admired the garden when I first came. It was where I preferred to spend my time whenever...