Dusk cloaked the horizon in deepening shades of aubergine and navy.

Francesca made her way to Crowncrest Court.

The housekeeper, upon seeing her, brightened with delighted surprise, evidently assuming this was a reconciliation. She bustled forward to greet her, exclaiming, "Welcome back, ma'am."

Francesca forced a smile. "I left a few things in the storage room. Just here to pick them up."

The housekeeper showed no suspicion, readily ...