The mansion was shrouded in darkness as Bella made her way through the silent halls, her footsteps echoing softly against the polished marble floors. Her mind buzzed with a whirlwind of emotions as she approached her study room, the weight of her confrontation with Gabriel bearing down on her with each passing moment. 

With a deep breath, Bella pushed open the door to her study, the soft glow of lamplight casting long shadows across the room. She crossed to her desk, her hands trembling with ...