She stopped near the hallway entrance, one hand resting on the wall, watching them disappear around the corner with a mix of surprise and confusion on her face.
While Bella and Jake were going upstairs, Marcus noticed and followed them from behind. He kept a careful distance, moving quietly through the side passages of the mansion. His face showed clear worry mixed with anger. He couldn’t believe what he was seeing. Bella walking away with Jake like that, away from the busy party downstairs. Every step he took felt heavier. The music from the main hall grew fainter as he climbed the stairs. He stayed close enough to watch their movements but far enough not to be seen easily by other guests. His mind raced with questions. Why was she going with him? What was Jake planning? Marcus’s hands c
