Chapter 35

The third day had dawned with an air of tension lingering in Jayden's apartment. Anxious hours had passed since Cassandra's inexplicable absence, and when she finally walked through the door, relief and frustration battled within him.

Jayden sat perched on the edge of the couch, his demeanor a mix of agitation and concern. As Cassandra entered, her eyes met his, registering the storm brewing within him.

" Where were you? " Jayden's voice, tinged with a blend of anger and relief, echoed in the room.

Cassandra paused, sensing the weight of his emotions. Her gaze softened as she met his eyes, an apologetic look clouding her features. " Jay, I'm sorry, " she began, her voice laced with regret. " I stayed over at a friend's place. Lost track of time. "

His expression darkened with skepticism. " That doesn't explain why your phone was unreachable for two days " he countered, his tone firm.

Cassandra's eyes darted away momentarily, a flicker of unease passing across her face. " I... I must h