Tea, Tactics, and Temptation ( 132 )

Lady Francesca sat gracefully on the veranda, warm morning sunlight filtering through the trees as she sipped her tea. Her maids quietly attended to her needs while Liana stood at a respectful distance, tall and poised.

Francesca placed her teacup down with a delicate clink and shifted her serene gaze to Liana. "Liana," she called softly.

Liana stepped forward, bowing slightly. "Yes, madam? You called for me?"

Francesca smiled warmly. "There's something I'd like to ask of you."

"Of course, madam. How may I assist?"

Francesca's expression turned thoughtful as her fingers brushed against the rim of her teacup. "Can you persuade Javier to attend school?"

Liana blinked in surprise, momentarily caught off guard. She quickly composed herself, knowing that persuading her young master wouldn't be simple. She had known him since birth and had seen how stubborn and clever he could be.