RENEE
Pulling up to the all-too-familiar space, I eased my car to a stop outside the gate. There was a time when this place felt like my home, my safe haven, a refuge from the world. But today, it seemed like just another destination.
I let out a deep, steadying breath before pressing the horn. The sound echoed briefly, and the gate creaked open. One of the security guards approached my car, his face vaguely familiar. Rolling down the window, I greeted him with a polite smile. "Adan knows I'm coming."
The guard gave a quick nod. "Yes, ma'am. He informed me earlier." He gestured to his colleague to widen the gate, then stepped aside. I offered him a broader smile, warmer this time, as if to soften the moment. Easing my car forward, I slipped through the now fully open entrance.
I parked neatly behind one of Adan's cars. Stepping out, I straightened my posture and glanced around.
