The Isley estate was exactly as Jayden remembered—tall iron gates, manicured lawns, security cameras visible at every corner. The kind of place that screamed wealth and protection.
Jayden got off his bike and strode toward the gate, which opened automatically upon recognition. He walked in and began heading to the house.
Penelope appeared at the front door, dressed in casual clothing, but still radiating that effortless aura.
But something was wrong about her entire demeanor. Her face was pale and drawn, eyes red-rimmed from crying. She looked like she hadn't slept in days.
"Jayden…" she whimpered, taking a step forward.
Jayden could hear it immediately in her voice—the raw edge of panic, exhaustion, and barely suppressed tears.
His stomach dropped. "Penelope, what's wrong?"
Penelope's composure crumbled. "She's gone," she whispered, her voice breaking. "Cassandra's gone."
Jayden froze. The world seemed to tilt slightly. "What do you mean, gone?"
