I pulled up the collar of my turtleneck sweater as I stood outside the imposing gates of the Valois mansion. Despite the warm morning, I had no choice but to hide the bruise on my neck. My fingers brushed against the fabric nervously, making sure the mark remained concealed.
Taking a deep breath, I pressed the intercom button.
"Seraphina Beaumont for my tutoring appointment with Leo Valois," I announced, trying to keep my voice steady.
The gates swung open with an ominous creak. As I walked up the long driveway, my mind replayed the argument with my mother earlier this morning.
"Julian called again," she had said, her eyes filled with worry. "He said he could get your father better medical care, Sera. Maybe you should reconsider—"
"No." My response had been immediate and final. "I won't be his mistress, Mom. Not even for Dad."
