The new butler of Esmeralda's estate received Austin and Eva at the front gate.
"Austin?" Esmeralda appeared at the doorway to the sitting room on the first level. There was no cheer or liveliness in her tone. Her eyes were dull. There were dark circles around her eyes. It was obvious that she was still mourning her parents death. After a short pause, Esmeralda acknowledged Eva's presence as well. "Eva."
Esmeralda took in a measured breath. "This is rare. What brought the both of you here?" She asked with a small smile.
"Sorry that I did not turn up at your parents' funeral... I should have known better than anyone else that you'd need support the most at this time."
Esmeralda shook her head while she sat down with them. "Don't mention it. You and Eva were having it rough too, isn't it? While the both of you had to deal with things by yourself, at least I have Dylan here with me. He helped me settle and rebuild everything while I was down and out."