The next few days settled into a strange rhythm. Mornings were quiet unless Lucian summoned me for another set of rules or a clipped conversation over breakfast. I spent most of my time in the library or wandering the parts of the mansion I was allowed in, always half-expecting him to appear and remind me of my place. Evelyn’s secret phone stayed hidden, and I only dared one short call every couple of days when I was sure I was alone.
On Thursday afternoon, Mrs. Hale knocked on my door with a large white box tied with a black ribbon.
“Mr. Draven asked me to bring this up,” she said, setting it on the bed. “There’s an event tonight. A charity gala. He wants you ready by seven.”
I stared at the box like it might bite me. “Tonight?”
“Yes, miss.” She offered a small, sympathetic smile befo
