His tailored suit hugged his frame perfectly, his expression unreadable.
"Suzanne," he said, his voice smooth and calm. "You're back earlier than I expected."
She forced a smile, though it felt brittle. "I thought I'd surprise you."
His lips quivered into a faint smile, but his eyes remained sharp, assessing her. "How thoughtful." He stepped aside, gesturing for her to enter.
She brushed past him, her heart pounding as his gaze lingered on her. The scent of his cologne—warm and faintly spicy—wrapped around her like a noose.
The grand foyer was as pristine as ever, the marble floors gleaming under the chandelier's light. A housekeeper passed by, bowing slightly before disappearing down the hall.
"Did you enjoy your time with your parents?" Andrei asked, his voice casual, but there was an edge to it.
"It was fine," she replied, keeping her tone light. "Nothing out of the ordinary."
