The heavy wooden door clicked shut, leaving behind a faint, chilly draft from the corridor.
Only after Drake had exited and the surrounding air collapsed back into a dead silence did Avery finally venture to poke her head out from beneath the heavy duvet. The flush on her cheeks hadn’t fully faded, yet her gaze locked instantly onto the nightstand—specifically, onto the document bearing the distinct "D.S." wax seal.
Her chest tightened. Bracing her aching, exhausted body, she sat up. But his hand was faster, a long index finger casually pressing down on a corner of the envelope.
Dominic leaned back against the headboard, his fingers idly tracing the crisp edge of the parchment. Deep within his grey eyes flickered a hint of cold, patient amusement as he looked down at her.
Avery took a
