Elara finished her breakfast in deliberate calm, but her mind was racing. Nina’s venomous threats echoed in her ears, but she wasn’t rattled. She knew Nina wouldn’t stop, especially with her mother in the picture. She sighed, brushing off the tension. Damian would be back soon, and things needed to be in order before his return.

Just as she was about to stand, Joy entered the sitting room once again, her face tight with worry.

“Ma’am, there’s a call for you. It’s from Mrs. Blackwood.”

Her grip tightened around her spoon. Of course. Nina’s mother. She should have expected this. “Put it through.”

“Okay, ma’am.” Joy did as she was...