The first rays of morning barely touched the Whitestone Estate when Catalina stirred from sleep. The air in her small room was cool, carrying the faint scent of polished wood and detergent from the hallway. She rose slowly, careful not to wake Calvin, who had stayed the night to ensure her safety. Every movement felt heavy, loaded with anticipation and fear. Today could change everything. Isabella’s schemes were reaching their peak, and if Catalina did not act carefully, Frederick could lose everything—and she could lose him forever.

She dressed deliberately, her uniform crisp and tight against her skin, pulling her hair back with precision. Each motion was mechanical yet purposeful....