THE CARTER'S MANSION
The heavy doors creaked open as Ace stepped into the living room, his sharp gaze sweeping across the space, only to freeze in place.
His grip on the doorknob tightened, knuckles whitening as his eyes landed on her.
Gina.
Seated comfortably on the couch, legs crossed, sipping tea like she belonged there.
She turned at the sound of the door, her painted lips parting in surprise. "Ace?" Her voice lifted in pleasant shock, but her fingers curled slightly around the teacup. "What are you doing here?"
His expression hardened. His fingers flexed against the wood.
"What are you doing here?" His voice came out sharper than intended, cold enough to cut through the warm air of the mansion.
Gina swallowed, recovering quickly with a practiced smile. "Your mom invited—"
Before she could finish, Ace stormed past her, the door slamming shut behind him with enough force to rattle the chandelier overhead.
