Suddenly, a hoarse cry rang out from the room next door. It was a familiar voice, filled with a mixture of agony and relief.

Without thinking, Simon rushed to the door, but it had been locked from the inside to prevent him from barging in.

“What’s wrong, Maria? Are you alright?” Unable to open the door, Simon began banging on it with all his might. The noise startled Lola from her sleep, and she started to cry. The maids rushed to soothe her, but the crying only grew louder. No, it wasn’t just getting louder—there was another, distinct sound joining Lola’s cries.

Realizing this, Simon froze mid-bang.

At that moment,...