Annabelle sat on the cold stone steps of the grand house, her arms wrapped around her knees as the sun began to dip low in the sky. 

The golden light spilt across the gravel driveway, painting everything in warm hues, but she felt none of its glow. 

Her heart thudded with frustration and impatience.

But she held on to the flicker of hope that had kept her glued to this spot for hours.

One week. 

That’s how long Angelo had said it would take before they left for Stoneraine. Now, every passing day felt like a betrayal.

Not just to her, but to Cathy.

Cathy’s excited questions about seeing their...