ARIELLE
I was on my way to the library when the doorbell rang — sharp, persistent, and impatient. The butler hurried to answer, and the moment the door swung open, several delivery men stepped inside, their arms full of enormous packages and vivid bouquets bursting with this season's flowers.
I paused at the top of the stairwell, leaning slightly over the railing to get a better view. Deliveries of this kind were usually meant for Serena, so naturally, I was curious to see which poor fool had decided to shower her with affection this time.
"Personal delivery for Miss Dunn!" announced a man holding a magnificent bouquet of roses, his voice brimming with pride.
"For me?!" Serena's voice rang through the hall before I even had time to roll my eyes. As if drawn by instinct, she was already descending the stairs, radiant and expectant, ready to claim what she assumed was hers.
