Talia tightened her grip on the suitcase handle as she approached the stairs, each step feeling heavier than the last. Her heart was thundering in her chest, her face streaked with tears she could no longer hold back. Just a few more steps and she'd be out of this house… out of this heartbreak.

But just as she reached the front door, it opened.

Aria and Lucien stood there, freshly returned from a check-up. Lucien’s arm was wrapped protectively around Aria’s waist, his other hand holding a brown envelope from the hospital. They froze at the sight of Talia—disheveled, eyes puffy, and suitcase in hand.

“Talia?” Aria asked, voice filled...