Chapter 125

• Howard paused at the bedroom door in Carter Mansion, the once-dreaded space tied to his strained marriage with Charlotte now pulling him forward with a shifted mind, boots scuffing the marble threshold.
• "Howard," came Anastasia's sweet voice from behind, lilting like honey.
• He turned, spotting Anastasia gliding down the hall, a steaming coffee cup cradled in both hands, her silk robe tied loosely, face beaming brighter than any day prior—eyes sparkling, steps light and eager.