The estate’s night air was cool against their skin, but inside, the fire between Carson and Justina burned hotter than ever. After hours in the hidden wing, tracing secrets, unlocking passages, and discovering the legacy of shadows left behind, they had emerged into the grand hall, the golden light of chandeliers reflecting off polished marble floors.

Justina paused, gazing at the hall, her fingers brushing over Carson’s. “All these years, all these walls, and now we finally walk ...