The dining room of the mansion glowed with the soft, golden light of the crystal chandelier overhead, its facets scattering delicate patterns across the polished walnut table, the elegant china place settings, and the crisp white tablecloth that draped all the way to the floor. Outside, the rain fell in a steady, rhythmic patter against the tall windows, creating a cozy, insulated bubble around the three of them. The air carried the comforting aromas of roasted salmon with garlic herb butter, fresh asparagus, and warm dinner rolls— a carefully prepared family meal that Victoria had insisted on, wanting to reconnect after her busy week. The storm outside made the room...