Chapter 86 086

• The morning light spilled softly through the wide windows, touching everything with a pale gold. Chase stood before the mirror, buttoning his shirt in slow, practiced movements. His reflection looked calm, almost unreadable, but there was a heaviness in his eyes that refused to fade. Behind him, Ella moved quietly, folding Vera’s school clothes. Her presence was a soft touch in the background but there was no doubt she was distant.
• Neither spoke at first. The distance between them had grown even farther since they returned home, silence filling the house with questions neither dared to ask. When Chase finally spoke, his voice was steady and firm.
• "I’ll be at the office most of the day," he said, sliding his tie into place. "If anything happens, call Ethan or Marcus. I’ve stationed guards outside. You and Vera are safe."