EMBER’S POV
The house felt different.
It was subtle—something most people wouldn’t notice. The halls were still quiet, the servants still moved the same way, and nothing looked out of place.
But the air had changed.
It felt tighter.
Watchful.
I walked down the corridor slowly, my steps measured, my expression composed. Anyone who saw me would think nothing was wrong. That everything was as it should be.
That was the point.
Two maids stepped aside as I passed, lowering their heads quickly.
“My lady.”
I didn’t respond.
They were nervous.
Not of me.
Of him.
Xavier.
I could feel it in the way the house moved around his presence now. Controlled. Careful. Like everyone was waiting for something to snap.
He had already started asking questions.
That much was obvious.
Good.
Let
