Rose stayed close to the elderly man, coaxing him to finish his meal despite his worsening condition. She watched over him silently, fighting the impulse to bring up her decision to divorce. How could she voice such matters when Sir Reid seemed so frail? She resolved to keep vigil, her heart weighed down by unspeakable burdens.

Sir Reid noticed the tension etched into her face. His voice was thin, yet still laced with concern. "Whats troubling you, Rose? Did Adrian mistreat ...