Eleanor’s POV
The morning air was crisp when I stepped out of my room, tugging my coat tighter around me. The sun had barely broken the horizon, and everything still felt damp with dew. My head was pounding lightly, and my stomach gave a lazy churn that I tried to ignore. Maybe I didn’t sleep well last night—too many thoughts, too many emotions.
I paused in the hallway where my parents were talking quietly over coffee. I forced a smile, hoping it would pass as sincere.
“I’ll notify the office about my travel arrangements,” I said, keeping my voice level. “I just need to pick up a few documents and sort things out.”
My mother gave a concerned nod, but she didn’t stop me. “Call if you need anything,” she said softly.
I gave a small nod and stepped outside.
The fresh air should’ve hel
