The second visit from Evelyn Blackwood did not come with an invitation. It came on a Tuesday afternoon, without notice, while Lucien was at the office and Dara was in the lower floors of the building managing a delivery issue. Evelyn simply arrived. The doorman, apparently familiar with her and perhaps uncertain whether she required announcement, sent her up.
Aria heard the vibration of the door chime and answered it.
Evelyn stood in the hallway in a cream coat that was the colour of old porcelain, her posture impeccable, her expression arranged in something that resembled warmth. She was carrying a small box, wrapped, which she extended toward Aria as if it explained the visit.
Aria took the box. She stepped back to let Evelyn in. She had two options — ask her to leave, which would cre
