DARRAGH’S POV

The dining room felt smaller than I expected for an estate this size. Warm light from the chandelier cast everything in gold, and the scent of Jade's shepherd's pie filled the air like comfort made tangible. She had set three places at one end of the long table, bringing us together instead of spreading us out like strangers.

Jade bustled around the table, serving portions that could feed a small army. Her movements were efficient but loving, the kind that came from years of ...