After Delphine finished her call with Leah, she went downstairs.
On an early winter morning, the air carried traces of frost. The camellias in the courtyard bloomed in the wind. She sat under the porch in the side hall, wrapped in a fluffy sweater, waiting for the residents of the Leclair mansion to wake up.
From outside came the sound of an engine. Someone passed through the deep shadows of the courtyard's trees, the cold wind brushing against their clothes, creating a rustling noise.
"When did it happen?" A man's voice, deep and melodious, spoke unhurriedly.
Ignatius Leclair returned carrying the chill of early winter. He unexpectedly caught sight of Delphine sitting under the porch, bundled up like a ball. His steps halted and slowed, his phoenix-like eyes fixed on her, deep as an ancient pool.
