Chapter 1 - The Departure
The soft knock at the bedroom door was followed by the click of the handle turning, catching against the lock.
"Claire," Grant’s voice came through the thick mahogany, laced with an irritating blend of authority and exasperation. "Open the door. You’re being melodramatic. The guests are uncomfortable."
Claire zipped the smaller suitcase, double-checking the false bottom. "I'll be out in a moment, Grant."
"I told you the east guest suite is ready. Let me have the staff take your bags."
Claire opened the door. Grant stood in the hallway, his posture relaxed, expecting her to be in tears. Instead, she stood perfectly straight in her emerald dress, one hand resting on her stomach, the other gripping the handle of her rolling luggage.
"I won't be needing the guest suite," Claire said, walking past him.
May you like
Grant frowned, following her down the wide, curved staircase. "What are you doing? Where are you going? It's nine o'clock at night."
"I am leaving," Claire replied evenly, not breaking her stride as she reached the marble foyer.
