The night had deepened by the time the carriage reached the gates of the Duke residence.
But unlike a usual night—
The residence was not quiet.
It was awake.
Lit.
Waiting.
—
Torches burned brightly along the entrance.
Servants stood in rows.
Guards were stationed with unusual alertness.
The moment the carriage stopped—
The doors opened before anyone inside could move.
—
"Miss!"
"Young Master!"
The voices came in a rush.
Concern.
Urgency.
Fear.
—
Lian Hua blinked.
"…Why is everyone here?"
Before anyone could answer—
The Duke himself stepped forward.
His face—
Usually composed and dignified—
Was now tight with tension.
Behind him stood the Duchess, her hands clenched, eyes filled with worry.
And further behind—
Family members.
Servants.
Even guards who rarely left their posts.
—
The moment Lian An stepped down—
The Duchess rushed forward.
"An'er!"
Her voice trembled.
She grabbed her hands, looking her over quickly.
"Are you hurt?"
