Emily opened the door, frowning when she saw her. "You're drenched. Again."
Serena managed a faint smile. "It's becoming a habit."
Emily sighed. "Leonard's been asking for you."
Serena froze. "He's awake?"
"Has been for hours," Emily said. "He had a visitor."
Serena already knew the answer, but she asked anyway. "Who?"
"Charlton Daniel."
The words made her stomach twist. "I see."
Emily hesitated. "He left about an hour ago. Leonard didn't say much afterward. But I'd be careful — he looked… changed."
Serena nodded. "Thank you."
The sitting room was quiet except for the soft crackle of the fire. Leonard sat near the window, his cane resting against his knee, a faint furrow in his brow.
"Serena," he said when she entered.
"Brother."
He studied her closely. "You look like you've seen a ghost."
"Perhaps I have."
He gestured for her to sit. "You know who was here."
She did not answer.
