CHAPTER TWELVE – HELP FROM AN EX

Scarlett didn't hesitate. Kicking off her heels, she practically sprinted out of the room, the echoes of Howard's angry voice fading behind her. She weaved through the throng of people, their faces a blur as adrenaline pumped through her veins. Bursting out of the heavy doors, she found herself on the mansion's steps. The cool night air hit her like a slap, a stark contrast to the stifling heat inside. But she barely registered it, her focus solely on putting distance between her and that horrific place. As she dashed down the street, fat rain drops began to pelt her. Taxi lights flickered in the distance, but none seemed to be slowing down. Tears streamed down her face, mixing with the rainwater that soaked her dress and hair. Shivering and lost, she pressed on, the deserted street offering no comfort. Just when she thought she couldn't take another step, a car's headlights sliced through the rain, momentarily blinding her. The screech of tires made her flinch, and then th