Chapter 67

Jasper Gee handed her a shopping bag as he stepped out of the car. “Miss Taylor, this is from the CEO. He asked me to bring it to you.” Cassandra looked inside, a bit puzzled, and found a jar of pricey bruise ointment. She instantly thought back to that afternoon—just as she was leaving the principal’s office, her father had stopped her. The look on his face... like he had something to say but held it back. Complicated, maybe even a little guilty. Her eyes suddenly felt hot and stung. Tears welled up before she could stop them. Her father’s gesture... Maybe it was something in their blood ties—some things you just can’t cut off. Or maybe... he was trying—just a little—to accept her. Even though her soul wasn’t really Cassandra’s, if fate had stuck her in this body, then fine. She’d live this life—for both of them. And what should’ve been Cassandra’s? The things she deserved? She’d make damn sure no one else took them away. … Nightfall settled in like quiet waves. Kingsmere Manor stood