Scarlett POV
I thought Denise had some high-stakes mission for me. Instead, she texted me an address and told me to deliver the antique crystal orb I’d won at the auction.
I grabbed the securely packaged box from the office and headed straight out.
My phone rang as the car merged onto the highway. Regina.
She started sweet, all sugar and concern. “Sweetheart, spend more time with Jaxen’s mother while she’s in town. Keep her happy.”
“I’m working, Regina. I don’t have time.”
Her tone flipped fast. The lecturing started—sharp little digs about duty, loyalty, and how ungrateful I was being.
It would’ve been easy to do what she asked… back when I still loved Jaxen and believed his mother actually saw me as family. Not anymore.
I’d finally hit my limit.
“Regina,” I cut in, voic
