Claire's POV
The summer heat was unbearable as I dragged myself home from church, my skin sticky with perspiration. All I wanted was a cool shower and an ice-cold beverage to quench my thirst. Playing the role of the heartbroken abandoned wife was exhausting – listening to endless condolences and advice about my "ungrateful" husband Orson who had left. Truthfully, his departure was a relief. I had grown weary of him long ago, but maintaining the facade of a devastated spouse was necessary.
"Kristen! Where are you, Kristen?" I shouted for my maid, irritated by her perpetual slowness.
She eventually appeared, wiping her damp hands on her apron. "Yes, ma'am?"
"Where's Justin?"
"He's taking a nap, ma'am."
"Bring me something cold to drink before I melt." The maid scurried away, returning moments later with a tray and my drink. I noticed her peculiar expression as she served me. "What is it now, Kristen?"
"Ma'am, Cole stopped by earlier today."
