Erisia stood by the car, watching as the driver lifted her suitcase into the trunk with ease. The lid shut with a dull thud, and he moved to pull the back door open for her. She paused for a moment, her gaze lingering on the grand silhouette of the Wrenford mansion. The morning air was cool, carrying the faint scent of trimmed grass and wet stone. Only after another breath did she slip into the back seat, smoothing her dress across her lap.
The driver slid into the front, started the engine, and the car eased forward, gliding down the familiar road. Erisia leaned lightly against the window, her eyes fixed on the gates slowly drawing away behind them—until the murmur of voices caught her attention.
Across the street, a cluster of women—neighbours on their morning stroll—walked together, one of them tugging along a lively terrier. Their tones were animated, brimming with gossip.
"Did you guys see it earlier? Sierra being hauled out? Those men in scrubs practically dragged her."
