The sound of the vehicle door opening stilled Annabelle’s breath.

Her feet felt like lead as her heart thudded in her chest.

She barely managed to focus when the sleek shape of a familiar figure emerged, but the moment her mind registered who it was, disappointment hit her like a punch to the gut.

Antonia.

Her heart sank further, and the hope that had flared moments ago went out in a puff.

She stood frozen as fear crept in, wrapping around her like icy fingers.

Antonia looked composed and elegant as always, but Annabelle couldn’t help the thought that perhaps she was there to deliver bad news.

She moved with...