The house had gone quiet that afternoon. I had tried reading and finishing the book in my hand, but my mind kept wandering, always to him. I left the conservatory, having passed Mary once or twice as I strolled around the estate. Mary had confirmed to me that Mr. Scott had been holed up in his home office since morning, speaking to people through that shiny computer screen of his. 

I couldn’t help it anymore. My chest felt heavy with the need to see him. So, I found myself standing outside ...