The morning sun broke gently over the Cole mansion, painting the gardens in strokes of gold and rose. The air was soft and peaceful, though the tension from the previous day still lingered faintly in the halls like a whisper that refused to die. Lydia awoke early, her heart fluttering with warmth and confusion. The night before had been full of mixed emotions — joy from Jacob’s affection, and fear from David’s outburst.
She walked to the mirror, brushing her hair slowly. The clothes Jacob had bought her made her feel different — confident, feminine, and alive. She smiled softly at her reflection, whispering, “Maybe I’m allowed to be happy now.”
Just then, there was a gentle knock on her door.
“Come in,” she said softly.
The door creaked open, and Jacob stepped in, his smile warm and ca
