_Lisa's POV_
The next morning, sunlight spilled through the windows, casting warm golden rays across the marble floors of the Frostbane mansion. I stretched slowly and rubbed the sleep from my eyes before pulling on a soft sweater and heading downstairs.
As I walked into the dining hall, I heard voices and the gentle clink of cutlery. Alexandra and Rylan were already at the table. They were chatting over steaming cups of coffee and a spread of breakfast dishes.
Rylan looked up first and smiled. "Morning, sleepyhead. Come join us."
Alexandra turned to wave at me. Her smile was cheerful but… a little forced?
I pulled out a chair and sat beside Rylan. "Morning."
I reached for a warm croissant and took a bite. The buttery pastry melted in my mouth, but my stomach still felt heavy.
"You
