The time Lucas gave me to leave the manor was almost up, but I had one last trick up my sleeve. Wearing my lingerie and night robe, I adjust my ring. I wanted to make Luke remember our bond—what we shared, physically, emotionally and sexually. This was the only way I knew how to. I leave my bedroom, with aunt Ruth and Lydia rooting for me.

I enter Luke's room. It was my second time being in his bedroom. I'd never gone there before, because we mainly made use of my bedroom and the study. I was always curious about his room, but never thought to satiate my curiosity.

The...