One Week After the Wager
Octavia stood in the grand entrance hall of the Kaiser estate, her fingers drumming an irritated rhythm against the leather portfolio clutched under her arm.
Servants moved frantically around her, adjusting flower arrangements, polishing already-gleaming surfaces, and ensuring every detail met the exacting standards required for tonight's celebration.
Everything was perfect.
Except for one glaring absence.
"Where is he?" Octavia muttered, her eyes scanning the hall for the fifth time.
Seraphina appeared at her elbow with the silent grace that made her simultaneously invaluable and occasionally unsettling. "My lady?"
"Jack," Octavia said, not bothering to hide her frustration. "Have you seen him? The guests will be arriving within the hour, and our brother has apparently decided that his presence at his own victory celebration is optional."
