The next morning…
Zara sat alone at the dining table. A quiet unease settled over her, her fingers fidgeting restlessly on her lap. Nathaniel hadn't returned home last night. He hadn't called or texted.
Something felt off, and she couldn't stop worrying. She wanted to check on him, but stubbornly refused to call him. As a result, she grew restless with each passing minute.
Mrs. Jules came and served breakfast, her expression subdued. "Sir called this morning."
Zara looked up quickly. "What did he say?"
"He told me you are free to go to work now," Mrs. Jules replied. "He won't keep you locked inside anymore."
Relief flickered across Zara's face, but it was short-lived. Her chest tightened with mixed feelings. She hesitated for a moment, then asked quietly, "Where is he?"
"He didn't say," Mrs. Jules answered with a shake of her head. "Just asked me to pack his bag. He is leaving on a business trip."