Anabel.
The moment I stepped out of Vanessa's room, a slow smile crept onto my lips.
It wasn't rushed.
It unfolded gradually, like something carefully held back finally finding its way to the surface. There was a quiet satisfaction in it, something subtle yet unmistakable, as though I could already see the outcome of everything I had set in motion.
Everything was falling into place.
Or at least…
It will be soon.
That thought lingered in my mind, steady and reassuring, as I reached up to smooth out my dress, straightening the fabric with deliberate care. Every movement felt intentional, controlled, like I was already preparing for what came next.
My next move.
Noah.
The name alone settled firmly in my thoughts, anchoring everything else into clarity. If there was anyone I needed on my side—completely, without doubt or hesitation—it was him.
And I wasn't going to waste time.
