Ruby could feel her heart racing at the thought of moving in with Stephan. The idea both terrified and comforted her. She knew Stephan was doing everything out of genuine concern for their safety, but taking such a big step felt overwhelming. She was now facing the biggest choice of life as she gazed between Naomi and Stefan.

The words of Naomi hung in the air, which just made the situation seem even more taut. Initially, the fact that Stephan was proposing the idea of staying with him astounded her, but slowly his approach became logical for her. The most important thing here was Ethan’s safety, but also, their right...