The front door clicked shut behind Mrs. Jules as she stepped in, arms heavy with grocery bags. Her face lit up when she spotted Zara descending the stairs.
"Madam," she grinned with excitement. "I brought lobsters today. You always love them. Since Sir can't have seafood, you never make it, but I can prepare it—just for you."
Zara's steps faltered, her lashes fluttering as she quickly swiped away the traces of tears with the back of her hand. She turned her face slightly, forcing composure, though the strain in her eyes betrayed her.
"I don't know. Ask Nathaniel what he wants to eat."
Zara tugged the apron loose and pressed it into Mrs. Jules's hands. Then she moved swiftly across the hallway and slipped into her studio room, shutting the door behind her.
