Eleanor showed no sign of annoyance. Instead, a faint, unusual smile lifted her lips, and an amused gleam sparked in her eyes.
"Really?" Eleanor stepped forward, her gaze pinning Linda from above, an unsettling smile lingering. Her expression seemed friendly enough, yet her eyes carried a sharp, icy undertone that seemed to slice through pretense.
A chill ran down Linda's spine as she faltered under Eleanor's gaze. A flash of uncertainty crossed her face, her confidence shaken. *What’s with that smile?* she wondered. *Is she smiling, or…?*
But before she could speak, Eleanor’s face turned impassive again. "Since you're back, go to your room and rest." Her tone was calm, almost casual.
Linda’s eyes widened in shock. Was Eleanor… actually allowing her to stay at the Williams Manor? The notion was bizarre, unexpected. Linda had anticipated resistance or suspicion, but Eleanor’s indifferent acceptance was stranger still.