Meanwhile, Victoria and her brothers decided to head back home. The ride was mostly silent, each of them lost in their own thoughts until the familiar sight of the Ashford mansion finally came into view. Once the car stopped, they all climbed out, their footsteps echoing lightly on the stone pavement as they made their way inside.
After exchanging greetings with their parents and sharing lunch together, Victoria and her brothers....everyone except Damien gathered in the courtyard. They settled around a round table spread generously with snacks, fruits, and drinks, the faint scent of fresh pastries mixing with the cool breeze of the afternoon.
Victoria sat quietly, her fingers idly tracing the rim of her cup, her thoughts elsewhere. There was no point in seeking Jamaila out today, she concluded. Meeting her might only make things worse. The best she could do was wait until tomorrow, then ask Jamaila directly about her conversation with Auren.
