The headmaster, Mr. Blackwood, had just seen Cassia’s butler and chauffeur off. Her guardian wasn’t available, and Cassia needed proper rest, so he had sent for her household staff to take her home to ensure she was properly cared for.

He sank into his chair with an exasperated sigh, rubbing the bridge of his nose. Almost immediately, three soft knocks sounded on his door.

“Come in,” he called, hands still rearranging the scattered papers on his desk.

Meret hesitated at the threshold, ...