Minerva had just laid on her bed when a knock came to the door. She rolled over, and a crease formed on her forehead when she saw the shadow of a man beneath the door. The lights in the corridors made it possible for her to see the black, shiny stud boot.

Adjusting her dress, Minerva grabbed a candle stand from her bedside table. Moving towards the door, she placed her ears on the surface of it to listen for any danger.

Vincent stood outside the door Edwin had shown him was Minerva's room. He could hear the pitter-patter of her feet, and a smile formed on his lips.

After...