CHAPTER 58 — WHEN SHADOWS FOLLOW FOOTSTEPS
The mansion felt different that morning—alive, listening, watching. Every chandelier glimmered with an unease that mirrored the tension threading through Adrian and Elena's steps. They walked through the corridor in silence, both acutely aware that someone in this house—someone trusted—had crossed a line.
Elena's fingers brushed Adrian's hand as they descended the hallway toward his study.
"Are you sure you want me with you while you check?" she asked softly.
Adrian didn't slow. "Where I go, you go. I'm done letting my enemies gamble with your safety."
His tone was calm, but she recognized the dangerous undercurrent in it. Adrian Kane was a man born from storms; when he spoke like this, someone, somewhere, was about to regret their decisions.
They reached the study, and Adrian unlocked the door. As he pushed it open, Elena tensed.
The room smelled… wrong.
Not exactly unfamiliar—but touched. Disturbed.
Adrian noticed instantly.
