Chapter 55 Framed with a Smile

Katelyn’s POV I went to the living room to grab my backpack. It was sitting by the armrest of the couch, right where I left it. I slung it over my shoulder, ready to walk out of this house and the tangle of everything it had become. My fingers curled around the strap, my eyes already scanning for the door. But Scarlett’s voice stopped me. “You’re really leaving?” I turned slowly. She stood at the bottom of the staircase, perfectly put together as always, not a hair out of place. Her tone was gentle, a bit too gentle. Her eyes swept over me like I was something fragile. Or disposable. “I just thought we could talk before you go,” she added, walking toward me with an unreadable smile. “Since… I won’t be seeing you again.” I narrowed my eyes. “Is that a threat or a promise?” She let out a light laugh. “Neither. Just… a fact.” I tilted my head. “And why is that?” “Well…” She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, her voice dipped in sugar. “Ethan and I are planning our engagement. We have