Bella's POV
I heard the commotion from my chambers as voices drifted through the corridors. "Lord Kenneth and Lord Gideon have returned."
My heart sank. I had been dreading this moment since their departure.
From my window, I could see Daisy practically glowing with satisfaction as she hurried past. The maid had always harbored ambitions toward Gideon, and his return clearly thrilled her beyond measure.
I knew my brothers well. Gideon, the second son, had earned his place among the Valeridge Sentinels through Father's connections. His striking features combined Mother's delicate beauty with Father's commanding height. Years of luxury had blessed him with pale, flawless skin, earning him the title "The Beautiful Lord" throughout Valeridge City.
Kenneth, the youngest son, basked in Mother's endless indulgence. Without rank or duty, he drifted through his days in idle pleasure. His academic failures had drawn Father's sharp rebukes time and again.
