The mansion was awake with quiet activity. Maids moved gracefully across the polished floors, their soft voices and footsteps filling the silence. Sunlight streamed through the tall windows, washing the rooms with golden warmth.
Samantha stood by the grand mirror in the guest room, fastening her watch. Her reflection stared back — calm, elegant, composed. But beneath that polished exterior, her mind ran sharp and fast. Kate Carter… what exactly are you hiding?
A knock came at the door. Lynn's voice wasn't there, nor Jake's; instead, it was Nick.
"Breakfast is over. I thought I'd see you off," he said as the door cracked open. His tone was casual, though his eyes betrayed something else — the image of her from last night still haunted him.
Samantha adjusted the strap on her bag, turning to face him with the same serene control as always. "That's very thoughtful of you. But unnecessary."
Nick smiled faintly. "Let's say it's a gentleman's habit. Old-fashioned, maybe."
