Ella paced the length of her new room, unable to shake the unease she felt after Valen’s sudden departure. Though the morning had started peacefully, his hurried exit left her feeling restless. Deciding not to dwell on her nerves, Ella ventured out. She decided to explore the manor, she opened the heavy oak door and stepped into the corridor.

The hallway was grand, with marble floors that gleamed under warm, overhead lights. The air smelled faintly of lavender, and the walls were lined with ...