THE black sedan rolled to a smooth stop in front of the mansion. The soft hum of the engine faded, leaving only the rustle of the estate’s tall oaks in the afternoon breeze. The chauffeur stepped out first, his gloved hands swiftly opening the rear door.

Oswald emerged, his tall frame casting a shadow across the polished gravel driveway. He glanced back and extended a hand toward Orlanda. She accepted it, her fingers resting lightly in his grip as she stepped down from the car.

“You alright?” his deep voice carried a gentleness that didn’t match the usual steel in it.

She gave a small nod.

“I’m fine. It was…...