Damien was gone.

That night, Scarlett didn't disturb anyone outside the family. Only those closest to him kept watch, gathered quietly around his bed while the long-life candles burned at the headboard. The stillness was deliberate — a space carved out for Adrian and Ginny to say goodbye to their father.

Adrian stood at the bedside, his posture straight and composed, one hand holding each of his sisters'.

Madam Summers was devastated, but she forced ...