Chapter 31

"Astrid, open the damn door."

Chloe's voice startled me. My pulse jumped, and I hurriedly shoved the letter into the second drawer, making sure it was out of sight before taking a steadying breath.

I walked over and unlocked the door.

The second it opened, Chloe pushed her way inside, eyes blazing.

"What the hell, Astrid? Now you're friends with Ashley? Are you begging for someone to kill you off?" she half-yelled, her arms crossing tightly over her chest.

I sighed and sank onto the bed, rubbing my temples. The last thing I needed was another argument. My mind was still tangled with thoughts of Nicholas—of seeing him, of hearing his voice, of the letter now hidden in my drawer.

"Answer me, Astrid." Chloe's voice sharpened. "You may be an heiress now, but I'm still your older sister. It's my job to protect you."

"I don't need your protection!" The words snapped out of me before I could stop them, harsher than I intended.