I couldn’t wait any longer.

The next afternoon, while Daddy was occupied with a video conference, I found Mr. Reynolds in the garden, trimming roses. The moment he saw me approaching, he straightened up, looking nervous.

“Miss Ava… you really shouldn’t keep seeking me out like this,” he said quietly, glancing toward the main villa.

“I need to talk to someone,” I replied, my voice trembling. “Please. Just for a few minutes.”

He hesitated, then nodded and led me to a secluded bench behind the rose bushes, where we were partially hidden.

We sat down. For a moment, there was only the sound of waves in the distance.

“You said...