Naomi’s POV

The storm broke during the night. By morning the air was heavy and warm. Everything looked normal on the surface, but inside I knew that the house was holding its breath

Cassian had been awake before dawn. I’d heard him pacing in his study, talking in a low voice over the phone. When I went downstairs he was gone. Only Beatrice, the housekeeper, remained, moving between stove and counter with her quiet efficiency.

She smiled when she saw me.

“Tea?”

She asked. Her hands were steady, but her eyes flicked toward the hallway. She was acting out of character; she was supposed to hate me, not smile as...