Aria’s POV

The moment the front doors opened, I knew peace was officially dead.

A high-pitched, familiar voice rang through the foyer — cheerful, commanding, and far too early in the day for my nerves.

“Carl! Aria! I hope you’re home — I brought joy, love, and a bit of trouble!”

I froze halfway down the stairs, gripping the railing. No. No, no, no.

Carl’s mother — Mrs. Evelyn Sterling — stood in the entryway like she owned the place. She had the kind of presence that made ...