Chapter 88

Before Latisha could react, Santino had already looked away, making her wonder if she had imagined the entire exchange.

Polly asked Clifford if they were staying the night. He refused without a moment's hesitation. He tossed the toy gun into the trash can, but it was too long and clattered against the side, knocking the bin over.

"Let's go," he said to Latisha.

Latisha pressed her lips together and rose to her feet, following him out of the mansion.

The night had grown late, and the rain was now falling heavily. Clifford held an umbrella over them, the rhythmic drumming of raindrops on the fabric echoing in the darkness.

Latisha watched his profile, obscured by shadows, a strange mix of emotions

churning inside her. Just a short while ago, he had been so cruel to her. Tonight, he had defended her, even at the cost of alienating his own sister.