Madam Lowe is having a terrible day.
Sophia Shen hasn't been gone for more than half an hour when the news arrives—The patriarch is returning to the estate.
Madam Lowe freezes.
Her father-in-law has been living quietly in the countryside for years, rarely interfering with family affairs. He values distance, peace, and control. When he moves, it is never without reason.
And when he returns suddenly, it is never good.
"Could it be... the Claire?" Mr. Carter blurts out.
Madam Lowe stiffens. Of course. Who else would it be?
Everyone knows how much the old man favors Claire. How protective he is of her.
At exactly eight that evening, the patriarch arrives. He doesn't waste time. Phones ring. Orders are issued. Pearl is summoned back from school. Ethan and Claire are ordered to return im
