But I still need to go home and talk to her. I need to understand exactly what her father did to her.
How he forced her into this.
Then I have to finish what I’ve started so nothing stands between us.
I need to ensure everything proceeds according to plan. The Syndicate, the government, the press.
My father’s tragic funeral.
Once I step inside the house, I immediately notice the tension amongst the staff.
I didn’t check the surveillance cameras on the drive back.
I should have.
Because something isn’t right.
“Harry.”
“Yes, sir.”
“What’s going on?”
“Miss Piper…”
“Speak,” I snap when he takes too long.
“She insisted on returning.”
My stomach drops.
“Returning where?”
I don’t like that I have to drag the information out of him. I like even less that he failed to inform me sooner. Preferably during the fucking drive back to the estate.
“The academy.”
My eyes narrow.
“Why wasn’t I informed as soon as she requested it?”
“You were otherwise occupied, sir.”
“Never.” I step into his space. “Never fucking use that excuse when it comes to her.”
His expression remains neutral.
“You ever do that again, you’re dead.”
“Understood.”
I turn towards the door, Harry close behind.
I get into the back of the car as he takes the wheel.
“Why the hell would you let her leave in the middle of the night?”
“It’s morning, sir.”
