The mansion had been peaceful for weeks.Too peaceful.Sherephina sensed it the moment the black luxury convoy stopped at the Vale gates. The guards stiffened, the staff whispered, and even Grandpa Tomas straightened his posture as though preparing for an old debt to walk through the door.When the cars opened, two people stepped out:Julius Adriastus — tall, cold, powerful, with the kind of presence that bent a room without speaking.And beside him, dressed elegantly and smiling warmly, was Diona, Sherephina’s aunt.Sherephina blinked in surprise.Julius, however, did not wait for greetings.His deep golden eyes locked instantly onto Sherephina……or rather, onto the person standing beside her.Elias Trent.Elias had come by for his usual evening visit, relaxed in a casual shirt, hands in pockets. But when Julius appeared, his posture shifted—cool, controlled, protective.Julius’ expression didn’t shift, but the air tightened like a wire pulled too thin.Sherephina stepped forward pol
Read more