Aria’s POV

I had barely finished brushing my hair when I sensed someone behind me.

“I’d like a word with you, Aria.”

My heart nearly jumped out of my body.

Carl’s mother stood in the doorway, dressed in a silk robe, arms folded gracefully, her expression calm… too calm. The type of calm that meant someone was about to ruin your entire peace with a single sentence.

I swallowed. “Of course, ma’am.”

She stepped inside, shutting the door behind her with a soft click that ...