Aiden Knight's POV
The key turns in my apartment lock with a soft click. I step inside, expecting the usual quiet sanctuary that greets me after a long day. Instead, raised voices echo from the living room, sharp with tension and barely controlled anger.
"This place is absolutely unacceptable, Clara! How can you possibly live in such conditions?"
I recognize the voice immediately—Yolanda Gable, Clara's mother. Her tone drips with disdain and aristocratic superiority. I set my keys down quietly and move toward the commotion.
"Mother, please keep your voice down. This is Aiden's home, and I'm grateful to be here."
Clara's voice carries a note of exhaustion, like she's been having this argument for quite some time. I pause at the edge of the living room, taking in the scene before me.
