Chapter 76

At eleven, I walk through the door to the garages, a sigh on my lips. I see Jerome immediately, waiting by one of the black cars. He gives me a big smile, which I return unenthusiastically. It’s not him – I just…really don’t want to go to lunch at my father’s house. Jerome gives me an understanding little grimace as he opens the back door for me and I climb in. “You doing all right?” he calls over his shoulder as opens the driver’s door and sits down in the front seat, genuinely curious.

“Just ready for this to be over,” I say back to him, leaning my head back and closing my eyes. Jerome makes a little grunt of understanding and begins to pull out of the garage and down the driveway.

When we’re on the road, I pull out my burner phone to send some long-delayed texts. I feel safe using it in my room, but not really anywhere else in the house. Not that my room is really safe anyway – Kent is very likely to have it checked daily, after the note from Fiona. Still, better safe than sorry.

I’m pleased when I see that a text from Ivan is waiting.

Ivan: Good morning, beautiful. I hope you slept well. Any chance I get to see you tonight?

I sigh, really wanting to say yes, but knowing it’s impossible.