Irvin's POV
My thoughts raced as I clenched my jaw, gripping the steering wheel until my knuckles went white.
The Jenkin Mansion loomed ahead as I drove closer, its imposing gates sliding open automatically when they scanned my license plate. Every detail of the estate screamed perfection, rehearsed control—exactly like my father. But behind those walls lived the people I loved, the ones I had to shield.
I yanked the car into the driveway, killed the engine, and bolted out. My footsteps rang through the hallways as I headed straight for the kitchen.
My mother stood beside the island, watching the chef prepare dinner. She spun around when she heard me coming, her face brightening instantly.
"Irvin," she said warmly, breaking into a smile. "What a wonderful surprise. I had no idea you were dropping by."
"Mom," I replied, keeping my voice low.
Her smile vanished immediately. The joy drained from her expression in seconds.
"What's the matter, sweetheart?"
"Where's Barnaby?"
