Chapter 164
~ Franklin ~
I woke before dawn, the quiet hum of the estate still wrapped in darkness. My suitcase stood packed and ready by the door. I showered quickly, dressed in a sharp charcoal suit, and took one final look around the master bedroom that suddenly felt too large and empty. The morning light hadn't yet penetrated the heavy curtains, leaving everything in grey shadows. I ran my hand along the edge of the bed—our bed—and the absence hit harder than I'd expected. Every piece of furniture seemed to echo with memories I was trying to suppress. I forced myself to turn away before the weight of it could pull me under.
Before Clarence carried my luggage downstairs, I gathered the household staff one last time in the foyer.
"Remember what I said," I told them firmly. "No uninvited guests. No exceptions. The only people allowed inside are Mrs. Flemington, Security has the same instructions. Do I make myself clear?"
