Chapter 49

His mother and Kariyah stood at the base of the staircase, exchanging bewildered glances as they watched Kellan storm past them without another word.

 His movements were swift and deliberate, his shoes striking the polished floor with a sharp cadence that echoed through the quiet house. 

"What's gotten into him?" Kariyah muttered, folding her arms as she tilted her head in confusion. Her mother only shrugged, a faint smirk tugging at her lips. 

"Let him sulk," his mother replied coldly. "He'll come to his senses soon enough." 

But Kellan barely heard them. His mind was a whirlwind as he ascended the stairs two at a time, his heart pounding harder with every step. He pushed open the door to the bedroom, the room he shared with Stacy, and froze. 

The space was immaculate, as if she had left it in perfect order for him. The bed was neatly made, the curtains drawn just so, and the surfaces dust-free.