That was the answer.
Creed Kirkland didn’t explain himself unless he intended to.
I let the thought settle.Let it sharpen instead of wound.
“Thank you,” I said.“I’ll be ready shortly.”
Ennis inclined his head and withdrew.
The coffee’s rich aroma curled around me, familiar and grounding, but even that felt muted.I stared at the perfectly plated breakfast.I didn’t touch the food.
Instead, I sat with the facts.
Creed hadn’t asked me to stay.
But he hadn’t cut me loose either.
No goodbye.No closure.No reassurances wrapped in courtesy.
Just space.
And Creed didn’t give space unless he was recalculating.
Or running from something.
I set the cup down with a quiet clink, my fingers curling into a fist on my lap.
“I’ll be ready to leave soon.”
Ennis gave a short nod, professional as ever.“Very well, ma’am.I’ll have the driver brought around when you’re ready.”
Upstairs, I gathered my things without hurry.The bed held the imprint of what had passed between us, sheets disturbed.A reminder, not a regret.
And still, he had left.
I changed into my clothes from Friday, gathered my purse, and straightened my spine.
When I stepped into the foyer, Ennis was already waiting at the doorway, holding my coat.
“Your car is ready, Ms.Peyton,” he said as he helped me into the winter garment.“If there is anything else you require, please don’t hesitate to ask.”
I met his gaze, searching for reassurance.
But Ennis was as unreadable as ever.
I forced a small, tight smile.“Thank you, Ennis.You’ve been kind.”
He inclined his head in a respectful nod, and I followed him out the door.
As I slid into the back seat of the waiting car, I didn’t look back at the house out of longing.
I looked at it like a board still in play.
As the gates closed behind us, I made myself a promise not to chase, not to retreat.
I’m done with all of that.
Creed had made his move.
