LILITH

Late evening arrived in a flash.

Just as I was debating whether to take a nap, a knock came at the door.

The drowsiness vanished in an instant, and in the next moment, I practically teleported to open the door.

“Tessa,” I said, a little breathless. “You need me for something?”

Perhaps my tone was too spirited, because Tessa paused, giving me a calm once-over before replying.

“Madam would like you downstairs.”

I almost asked if Claire was here but decided against it.

Where was the fun in spoiling the surprise?

“Alright.” I closed the door and followed her.

---

Descending the stairs, I instantly recognized the woman seated...