Tangled Games (Dating Games #5) - T.K. Leigh Page 0,103

SUV and heads to my side, helping me step down onto the sidewalk. After retrieving my small suitcase, he carries it up the front steps for me, then turns to face me. It’s sad to think that my entire life can fit into just one suitcase.

I once marveled at people who got rid of most of their belongings and decided to live more of a nomadic lifestyle, never staying in one place long enough to set down roots.

Now the idea is quite appealing.

“It was an honor, ma’am,” O’Kelly says stoically.

“Thank you. This entire ordeal would have sucked if I didn’t have you helping me, Kylian.”

He grits a smile and is about to retreat when he stops, lifting his gaze to mine. “Can I… Can I give you a hug?”

Tears well in my eyes once more and I nod. He wraps his arms around me, my body tiny compared to his huge bulk.

“You’ll always be a princess to me.”

I draw in a breath, allowing myself to find a hint of comfort in his words. “Thank you.”

He pulls back, keeping me at arm’s length as he stares intently into my eyes. “And I think once the dust settles and the noise dies down, you’ll find most people feel the same way. The loudest voice in the room is seldom the wisest. And is often the most scared. Just some food for thought.” He holds my gaze, then nods, making his way down the steps.

Just before getting into the SUV, he bows his head. “My lady.” Then he climbs into the car.

I expect them to drive away, but they don’t. Instead, he keeps his eyes trained on me, which I imagine he’ll do until he sees me disappear into Izzy’s house.

Turning toward the keypad, I enter the code and the door buzzes, granting me entry. I walk into the small foyer, setting my suitcase by the entryway table, the place filled with light. I close the door behind me, then look out the window, watching as the last tie to my life in Belmont drives off.

“Nora?” Izzy’s voice carries from the top of the stairs.

I turn toward the staircase to see Izzy, Evie, and Chloe standing there.

“Welcome home,” she says with a sad smile.

I make my way up the stairs and into their outstretched arms. I burst into tears, all the emotions I’ve kept to myself since walking away from Anderson one last time washing over me. They don’t ask me if I’m sure I did the right thing. Don’t try to goad me into talking about my mother. Don’t bring up anything that would make my heart splinter even more than it already is.

They just hold me and let me get it all out.

Just like any loyal friends would.

Chapter Thirty-Five

Anderson

I stare at the empty chair beside me in the formal dining room of my residence while Lieutenant Colonel Bridge reviews my agenda for the day. I somehow manage to nod when it’s expected, but my attention is elsewhere. It’s focused on the ghost of the woman who once sat in that chair every morning.

I knew I’d miss her when she left. But I didn’t expect to feel her everywhere in this house.

Her laughter still echoes in the halls.

Her smile still tortures me every time I close my eyes.

Her perfume still permeates the sheets of the bed we once shared, despite the fact the household staff changes them regularly.

When the room falls silent, I snap out of my daze, bringing my attention back to Bridge. “Thank you,” I say, assuming he’s done telling me where my presence will be required today.

A trained monkey once more, I simply go through the motions and do what I’m told. Like I did when I silently stood by as the royal household made an official statement, claiming Nora left voluntarily in response to her mother’s interview. As is always the case, they left out any indication of the role they played in forcing her out, remaining neutral instead.

At least I didn’t have to stand by my father’s side as he shared this with the press. But in the week since, the media has certainly been hounding me, asking for a statement.

No longer prone to shun the rules, I give them the response ingrained into my subconscious at this point… No comment.

“Of course, sir.” Bridge stands from his chair, but doesn’t bow or retreat.

“What is it?” I ask, sensing his hesitation.

“It’s just… Carly Hart’s people reached out to see if you were interested in appearing on the morning