Chapter 37

Cole's POV

I passed through the gates of the mansion, heading to my chambers, but noticed something awkward among the guards.

They didn't seem cheerful; some were limping, and some had bruised cheeks, but I chose not to ask them.

"Why does everyone seem off?" I met Celine on my way in.

"Yeah, Ryder kinda visited; he did a lot," Celine answered, avoiding eye contact.

"Okay, why did he come?"

"I wasn't at the scene, but I think he was looking for Ashley," Celine replied and tried to walk past me.

"Is everything alright? You seem off— Did he do anything to you?" I quickly placed my hands on her head, trying to check her temperature.

"I'm fine." She knocked my hands off her face.

"Celine, did I do anything wrong, or—"

"You did nothing, Cole. I'm just tired, that's all. I've been busy all day."

"Well, that's okay. How can I help?" I grabbed her hands, and she slipped off.