The moment they stepped inside the Carter villa, Maya’s eyes scanned the vast hallway. The warm, golden lights above reflected off polished marble floors, and the faint aroma of roasted meat and fresh bread drifted through the air. She could hear low voices and occasional laughter coming from somewhere deeper inside.

Elias gently guided her forward with a hand at the small of her back, leading her past the grand staircase and toward the dining room. The double doors were already open, and from where she stood, Maya could see a long table set for dinner, with gleaming silverware and crystal glasses catching the light from the chandelier above.

As...