Eleonora Amorielle and Ellis Smith sat in the Amorielle mansion's living room. Silence hung in the air as they both awaited the arrival of the wine Eleonora had requested from the housekeeper, Mary. Tension was palpable, and both knew there was much to be discussed.

Finally, Mary appeared with the wine bottle and two glasses. She poured the wine and discreetly withdrew. As they savored the wine, Eleonora decided to broach a delicate subject that had loomed over them from the ...