Victoria sat in the grand bedroom of the Zlate family villa, her back resting against the plush pillows of the oversized bed. The room smelled of lavender and fresh linen, and a warm breeze filtered in through the slightly open window. The soft silk nightgown she now wore was far more comfortable than the torn dress she had been in hours ago.
She was home and Safe as well.
But despite the comforting atmosphere, her body felt heavy with exhaustion. Her wrists ached from where they had been tied, and faint bruises were forming on her arms. Nothing too serious—just minor injuries. Yet, judging by the way her family hovered over her, one would think she had barely escaped with her life.
Lady Erica, dabbed a cool cloth over her forehead, her face lined with deep worry. "Oh, poor child.
