The gentle patter of rain against the floor-to-ceiling windows provided a soothing backdrop to the dimly lit study. Evelina sat ensconced in a plush armchair, her legs tucked beneath her, a tumbler of amber liquid cradled in her hands. The flickering flames in the fireplace cast dancing shadows across her pensive features as she stared into the depths of her glass.

The creak of the door opening broke the silence, and Alden stepped into the room, his movements fluid and silent. Without a word, he crossed the space between them and sank into the chair opposite hers, his penetrating gaze fixed upon her face.

"You're brooding again," he observed, his...