The door shut softly behind him.
For a brief moment, the room fell into an awkward, unsettled silence—the kind that lingered too long, stretching thin.
Damien’s jaw tightened.
Ashcroft’s words echoed in the space he’d left behind.
If she’ll talk to you.
The thought lodged in his chest—sharp, unwelcome.
Then he spoke.
“Get the vehicle ready,” he said, voice low and controlled, the command cutting cleanly through the quiet. “We’re leaving. Now.”
James inclined his head, expression calm and precise. “Yes, sir.” He turned on his heel, moving with quiet efficiency toward the door.
Damien remained alone in his office. The sudden quiet felt heavier now, the absence of movement outside the door amplifying every thought, every pulse of tension in his chest. Relief surged first—finally, an
