The air was bathed in a golden glow as the morning sun slanted through the tall windows.
A profound silence descended upon the mansion, a stillness that felt different from the typical serene quiet. It was as quiet as the prelude to a storm heavy and expectant.
The events of the previous night and the tense conversation with Carson had been replayed in Annabel's mind as she slept fitfully.
The idea of eating still made her stomach churn. The tray of toast and eggs on the table by the window was unattended by her.
The stifling silence became unbearable after some time. With the crumpled tissues and the ghosts of her tears, Annabel needed to get up, breathe and be somewhere else.
After smoothing her wrinkled silk pajamas and running her fingers through her tangled hair she left her roo
