11

As I came out of the study, I felt a rush of adrenaline. I knew I played my cards perfectly. I gave them enough that they would be satisfied all the while keeping my agenda. I am not that puppet anymore that they take me for. I have Sharon, and now I have a plan.

I thanked him and he moved one step across the threshold down the hall, and it was as if a weight did come off my shoulders in the truest sense. It was so quiet inside the mansion, it was almost unbearable.

I realized I was alone. Not that I cared. I would be gone soon enough and whatever tension lay between us would stay behind for the length of the trip. This was as much peace as I was going to get. I walked inside to the sound of a soft voice coming from behind me.

"Kellan?"