:12

Ana lay on the bed, exhaustion weighing heavily on her limbs. Her hand rested against her forehead as she tried to gather her thoughts, the reality of her new life settling over her like an unshakable weight. Just as she closed her eyes for a brief moment of respite, a soft knock echoed through the room before the door creaked open.

A maid stepped inside, her expression neutral but her purpose clear. "Lady Eleanor Falkner has requested that I assist you in refreshing yourself and accompany you to the dining hall."

Ana exhaled slowly, knowing resistance was futile. Without a word, she allowed the maid to help her rise. The woman guided her to the grand bathing chamber, where warm water shimmered beneath the dim candlelight. The fragrance of lavender and jasmine permeated the space, offering a rare moment of comfort. Ana allowed the warmth to seep into her tense muscles, attempting to dispel the unease lingering within her. However, no matter how much she composed herself, the anxiety remained—a persistent shadow beneath the surface.

Dressed in an exquisite evening gown of deep sapphire, Ana made her way to the dining hall. The dress was elegant, its delicate embroidery shimmering under the soft glow of the chandeliers. As she entered, she found Lady Eleanor Falkner seated at the head of the long table, poised with an air of superiority.

"You took your time," the woman remarked, lifting her glass with deliberate grace. "A wife should be prompt, especially in a household governed by discipline."

Ana seated herself, her fingers tightening subtly against her lap. "Forgive me. It was a long day."

Lady Eleanor Falkner regarded her with a scrutinizing gaze. "I trust you understand what is expected of you here. This is not your father's house. Things operate differently under this roof."

Ana met her gaze, maintaining her composure despite the veiled reproach. "I will do my best."

"Let us hope so. The Falkner name carries weight, and we do not tolerate weakness. My son is a man of great importance, and his household must reflect that."

Ana merely nodded, though every word grated against her patience. Lady Eleanor continued, speaking at length about the family's traditions, expectations, and most notably, Caden's numerous accomplishments.

"Caden is not an ordinary man. He commands respect wherever he goes. You should consider yourself fortunate to stand by his side." Her words were laced with condescension, as if Ana had no worth of her own.

Throughout the meal, Ana found little chance to eat. Each time she raised her fork, Lady Eleanor's sharp words disrupted her, filling the space with pointed criticisms and endless praise for her son. The food remained untouched, her appetite thoroughly diminished by the toxic weight of the conversation.

Just as she prepared to excuse herself, hushed whispers reached her ears—Caden had returned. Her heartbeat quickened, yet he did not seek her out. Instead, he proceeded directly to his study, as though she were of no consequence.

A servant soon approached. "Lady Eleanor Falkner requests that you meet your husband in his study."

Ana hesitated, glancing toward the grand staircase leading to the east wing. Her chambers lay in the opposite direction. A part of her wished to ignore the summons, yet she knew she could not.

Upon returning to her room, she changed into a refined ivory nightgown, the delicate fabric brushing against her skin with whispered softness. Her long hair cascaded over her shoulders in loose waves, framing her face. The flickering candlelight cast gentle shadows over her slender form, accentuating the refined contours of her figure. As she caught her reflection in the mirror, a strange sensation coiled within her—vulnerability, uncertainty, and an emotion she could not yet define.

Taking a steady breath, she stepped into the dimly lit corridor. The silence of the estate was even more pronounced at night, each footstep echoing through the vast halls as she approached the large wooden doors of Caden's study. Her hand hovered over the handle.