Having sent Lilith off, Mason returned to the second-floor master bedroom. He wanted to call Zoe downstairs for dinner, realizing it had been a while since they had a proper meal together.

He wanted to make things work with her.

As he entered the bedroom, the gifts he gave were carelessly piled in the corner, as if her indifference discarded his intentions. Mason knew Zoe did it on purpose. Whatever treatment he gave her before, she was throwing right back at him.

It was a back-and-forth game.

From the walk-in closet came faint sounds, like someone packing luggage. Mason hurried over.

Sure enough, Zoe was packing a suitcase. She was filling it with clothes, accessories, and her everyday items, cramming it full.

Mason watched, feeling a sudden ache.

He caught her wrist, pulling and guiding her onto the small sofa. Their bodies were now close, his voice dangerous. "Where are you going?"

Zoe didn't struggle. She looked up at her husband, observing the anxiety and urgency in his e