The evening air carried the scent of jasmine through the courtyard garden.
Alaric sat alone at the wrought-iron table, steam rising from his teacup in lazy spirals.
The sun was setting behind the estate's walls, painting everything in shades of amber.
He lifted the cup, letting the warmth seep into his palms. Earl Grey, Selene's favorite, which meant the entire household drank it whether they liked it or not.
The first sip was always the best, before it cooled, before—
"Lord Alaric?"
A maid stood at the garden entrance, hands folded properly in front of her apron. Young, nervous, the way her weight shifted from foot to foot gave it away.
"Yes?"
"Lady Selene requests your presence in her study, my lord."
He held the cup for another moment, watching the steam dance. Then set it down with a soft clink against the saucer.
"Tell her I'll be there shortly."
