NIRELLE

After breakfast I make my way to Lucien's study; with one knock I let myself into the room, and he lights up upon seeing me as if we had not just parted a few moments ago.

"What are you doing here?" he asked, shocked to see me.

"I am here to see Mr. Vexley. Is he in?" I ask, and he tilts his head, squeezing his face as if he were thinking about what I had just asked. "If he isn't in, then I can just come back another time."

"Well, if you are here for Mr. Vexley, then I am afraid you ...