"Yes, ma'am," the butler said.
Lucas was coming.
Madeline tensed again. Without thinking, she looked toward Adrian.
As if sensing it, Adrian reached over and gently covered her hand with his.
"Don't be afraid."
He turned toward her and spoke so softly that only she could hear.
Strangely, her heart settled.
'Whatever comes, we'll deal with it. With Adrian here, there really isn't much to be afraid of.'
The aroma of fresh coffee lingered in the room as the wait dragged on.
The calm before the storm made every passing minute feel more agonizing, keeping Madeline on edge.
Margaret eventually became impatient.
She tapped her knuckles lightly against the mahogany armrest.
"What did Luke say?"
The butler had just ended another call.
"Mr. Hayes Junior said he's already on his way, bu
