They never made it to coffee.

Liora's phone rang again—this time, Fiammetta's name on the screen.

"Liora, you need to come home immediately," the matriarch's voice was sharp. "It's Leander. He fell trying to get out of bed alone. The doctor is here, but he's asking for you."

All thoughts of coffee and escape plans evaporated. "I'm on my way."

Saskia took one look at Liora's face and made an illegal U-turn, heading back toward the mansion.

When they arrived, the house was in chaos. Medical staff hurried through the hallways. Fiammetta stood outside Leander's room, her usual composure cracked.

"What happened?" Liora rushed toward her.

"He wanted to surprise...