Sophia stepped into the dining room and settled herself at the table for dinner. Across from her sat Samuel, his expression as unreadable as ever—a mask of indifference that offered none of the warmth she once foolishly sought.

Lily, watching the scene unfold, hesitated for a moment before speaking softly, as though not wanting to disturb the tentative peace. "Tomorrow is Madam Yates’s death anniversary," she said carefully. "Some of her former students visit her grave every ...