What do you think he’s after?

As I stepped into the familiar warmth of the estate I shared with Zara, a quiet sense of satisfaction washed over me.

The day had gone better than I could have hoped. I'd impressed Lord Montrose, secured a position in his household, and planted myself in the heart of their world. Now, the real work would begin.

The house was quiet, the dim glow of enchanted lanterns casting soft light on the wooden floors. My steps echoed faintly as I walked through the hallways, the faint scent of Zara's favorite jasmine incense lingering in the air. I smiled to myself, amused by her habit of leaving a trace of her presence everywhere she went. 

"Zara?" I called, glancing into the study. Empty. I checked the lounge next, then the kitchen, but there was no sign of her. It wasn't like Zara to be so elusive. She was usually the first to greet me with some sarcastic remark or sharp observation.